Sangrur, June 8:- Under the Early Childhood Care and Education scheme, the Punjab government has issued guidelines for the registration of private play-way schools. It is now mandatory for all private play-way schools operating in Punjab to obtain registration from the Department of Social Security, Women, and Child Development, Punjab. This move will ensure that the government has complete records of all children enrolled in these institutions.
Providing more information, District Program Officer, Sangrur, Pradeep Singh Gill stated that private play-way schools in the district will focus on early childhood development through play-way methods, which will enhance the physical and mental growth of children. He emphasized that under the new guidelines, it is mandatory for these schools to get new registrations or renew existing ones, subject to detailed rules and instructions.
He further added that as per the new guidelines, there will be no screening tests for children or interviews of parents for admission into play-way schools. The teacher-student ratio must be one teacher for every 20 children, and school boundaries must be completely secure. He also stated that scaring or threatening children is strictly prohibited, and no extra academic burden should be placed on them.
Mandatory requirements for play-way schools also include the provision of a library and maintaining health records for all children. To ensure the safety of children, fire safety measures and health facilities will be inspected periodically. He mentioned that school buildings must be well-ventilated, with proper boundary walls, clean drinking water, and a dedicated caretaker. Other mandatory requirements include appropriate infrastructure, restroom facilities, separate toilets for boys and girls, and the installation of CCTV cameras in all schools.
He informed that the registration process for play-way schools is now available online. School owners or trusts can complete their new registration or renewal through the e-Sewa portal or via Suwidha Kendras.
He has instructed all current and aspiring play-way school owners/trusts in Sangrur district to ensure they comply with the new guidelines and complete their registration as soon as possible. He warned that failing to comply with these instructions or failing to obtain registration will lead to appropriate legal action against the respective schools.
Finally, he appealed to parents to prioritize enrolling their children only in play-way schools that are already registered with the department.