DSEK issues new SOPs for school picnics & outings

SRINAGAR, APR 13: Following the tragic bus accident on Saturday morning, which led to the deaths of two students and left at least 17 others injured from Government Degree College Sogam, Kupwara, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has issued new Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) to ensure the safety of students during picnics and outings.
The accident occurred when a bus, carrying students and staff from the college, met with an unfortunate mishap in Vodhpora village. In response to this incident, the DSEK issued an official circular urging all educational institutions, including government and recognised private schools, as well as coaching centers, to adhere to strict guidelines when organising such events in the future.
The DSEK circular highlighted the importance of obtaining prior parental consent for trips, stressing that permission must be sought at least 10 days before the scheduled outing. For higher secondary schools, permission must be obtained from the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEO), while primary and middle schools must seek approval from the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO). Schools must ensure that the destinations chosen for these outings have educational value, ensuring that students and teachers benefit from the learning experience.
The circular also emphasised the need for a senior staff member to be assigned to coordinate with local authorities and ensure the smooth conduct of the trip. It is also mandatory for the school staff to be fully responsible for the students’ safety and discipline during the outing, with senior staff guiding and supervising the activities.
Timings for outings were also strictly outlined, with the circular specifying that no students should leave the school campus before 8:00 am, and all students must return by 6:00 pm. The DSEK also mandated a minimum teacher-to-student ratio of one teacher per 15 students to ensure adequate supervision throughout the outing. Moreover, it was instructed that first aid kits must always be carried, and at least one staff member should be trained in basic first aid.
In terms of transportation, the DSEK clarified that only authorised and licensed transport operators approved by the J&K Motor Vehicle Department should be hired for student outings. The vehicles used for these trips must be in good condition and possess the necessary registration, insurance, and fitness certificates. Teachers were instructed to ensure that no one encourages reckless driving and that speed limits are adhered to strictly during the journey.
The circular also focused on discipline and conduct during the outings, urging students to wear proper school uniforms and adhere to the school’s code of conduct. The use of junk food, plastic, and polythene was discouraged, and the proper disposal of waste was emphasised. Students were advised to avoid dangerous areas like water bodies, forests, or any other hazardous locations during the outings.
Finally, the DSEK stressed the importance of weather and health precautions, advising schools to check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities. Adequate arrangements for drinking water, sun protection, and hygienic food were also recommended. The circular also advised that long-distance picnics for middle school students should be avoided, as they may pose additional risks.
The DSEK concluded by reiterating that the cooperation of all school staff is crucial in ensuring that school outings and picnics remain safe, enjoyable, and educational. The new guidelines are expected to be implemented diligently in all educational institutions to safeguard students and prevent further incidents in the future.