Kerala May Shift School Academic Year to June-July: V Sivankutty Confirms Review

A Historic Change in Kerala’s Education System?

In a significant development, the Kerala Education Department is actively evaluating the possibility of reshaping the academic calendar, potentially shifting the school start from the current June-March cycle to a June-July or July-May academic year. This move, if implemented, would be a landmark change in the state’s education policy and could bring Kerala in line with national and international academic norms.

The announcement was made by General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who confirmed that discussions are ongoing and that a scientific study is in progress to assess the practicality and benefits of this change.

Climate and Curriculum: A Strong Reason for Change

Over the past few years, Kerala has been severely affected by erratic monsoons, floods, and heatwaves, especially during school reopening periods in early June. This has caused:

• Frequent disruptions in classes
• Delayed school reopenings
• Psychological stress for students and parents

The government believes that rescheduling the academic year could help minimize weather-related interruptions and offer a safer and more stable learning environment for students.

Global Compatibility: Helping Kerala Students Connect with the World

Another major advantage being considered is academic alignment with international calendars. Most global universities begin their academic year around August or September. A shift in Kerala's school calendar would:

• Simplify admissions for students applying abroad
• Reduce academic gap years
• Make it easier to synchronize competitive exam schedules and central board timelines (CBSE, ICSE)

This step would also support Kerala's growing student migration to countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia.

Stakeholder Consultations Are Key

Minister V Sivankutty clarified that the decision would not be imposed without consultation and consensus. A large number of stakeholders will be involved, including:

• Teachers and school principals
• Parents' associations
• Child psychologists
• Curriculum planners and educational experts

“This is not a decision we will make overnight. The goal is to ensure the best interest of children and the education system as a whole,” said the minister.

Implementation Timeline and Strategy

While no official timeline has been set yet, preparations could begin in late 2025, if the proposal is approved. A gradual transition may be recommended to:

• Avoid disruption in ongoing batches
• Realign exams, holidays, and teacher training schedules
• Update textbooks and digital platforms accordingly

The government may also pilot the change in selected districts or classes before full-scale implementation.

Public Reactions So Far

The idea has sparked mixed reactions across the state:

• Some parents and students welcome the change, seeing it as a positive adaptation to climate realities.
• Others are concerned about transition difficulties and adjustment issues for ongoing students.
• Educational experts have praised the move as visionary and globally relevant.

A Visionary Reform in Progress

Kerala’s potential school academic year shift is not just about changing dates—it’s a move toward a future-ready, climate-resilient education system. By combining global best practices with local realities, Kerala is showing leadership in educational reform.

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