Several students’ unions on Friday demanded withdrawal of G.O. 29 issued for the closure of government schools in the State.
All India Students’ Federation State president M. Subba Rao said youngsters living below the poverty line were pursing their studies in government schools and their closure would affect their future. “Nearly 9,000 schools will be closed in a phased manner,” he said.
The government was keen on closing the schools which had lesser students on the rolls. “Instead of fortifying the schools, they are being closed which might increase child labour,” Mr. Rao remarked.
The government was acting as an agent to the corporate schools and showing less interest in running the government schools effectively, he alleged.
“A survey recently brought to the fore that 40% of child labour was school dropouts and if more schools were closed the child labour in the State will increase,” Mr. Rao said.
‘HC order ignored’
YSR Students’ Union president Salam Babu said that despite a High Court directive the government was not keen on constructing toilets for girls in schools. “The schools in villages are in a bad shape lacking proper classrooms, drinking water facility, library and laboratories,” he said.
Mr. Babu asked the government to provide nutritious breakfast and snacks in the evening to students pursing education in government schools. “Even the quality of uniform is substandard. The government should provide bicycles to both boys and girls,” he demanded.
Leaders from SFI, PDSU, NSUI and other unions took part.
