Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Jun 8: In a significant move aimed at inculcating road discipline among young minds, the Karnataka State Department of Education, Research and Training has ordered the inclusion of traffic safety lessons in school textbooks from the academic year 2025-26.

As per the directive, students of grades 2, 4, 6, 7, and 9 studying under the state syllabus will now have lessons related to traffic rules and road safety. The initiative is part of an effort to promote responsible behaviour among children, particularly in a state witnessing rising road mishaps.

The traffic safety content has been curated in collaboration with the traffic police department and includes topics such as understanding traffic lights, pedestrian discipline, personal safety, and other key aspects of road usage.

However, the move has stirred mixed reactions from parents and education experts. While many support the idea in principle, concerns have been raised over its sudden implementation and practical feasibility.

“There is already a shortage of subject teachers in government schools, and guest teachers have not been paid on time. In such a situation, how will an additional subject be effectively handled?” questioned a parent-teacher association member.

Another parent expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation, stating, “No meeting or discussion was held with parents or educational bodies before finalising the content.”

The managing director of the Karnataka Textbooks Association clarified that while the current curriculum draft includes the road safety component, the final decision will be reviewed by the textbook committee chairperson. “The issue will be examined in the next committee session, and suitable modifications, if necessary, will be made,” the MD assured in an official statement.

While the intent to instil traffic awareness is being appreciated, stakeholders emphasise the need for better groundwork, adequate staffing, and collaborative decision-making to ensure that the new addition enhances rather than burdens the existing educational framework.