Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has raised the minimum age limit for admission to Class 1 to six years, General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced on Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference, Sivankutty pointed out that earlier, children were admitted to Class 1 at the age of five. However, scientific studies show that they are better prepared for formal education at the age of six.

“This is why in countries with well-developed education systems, the age of admission to formal education has been fixed at six years or above,” he said.

In Kerala, parents traditionally enrol children in Class 1 at the age of five. However, now more than 50 per cent of students start school at the age of six, and this trend should be encouraged, he said.

The new age requirement for admission to Class 1 will come into effect from the 2026-27 academic year.

Apart from the revision of the admission age, the minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to prevent drug abuse among students. He said the government has formulated a standard operating procedure (SOP) to deal with drug-related issues, focusing on detection, reporting and remedial measures.

Strengthening vigilance against drug abuse in schools

The minister announced that the government has formed groups of parents to raise awareness and vigilance against drug use on school premises. Schools have also implemented an action plan that prioritises the physical, mental and social well-being of students. The plan focuses on safety, security and participation while ensuring the protection of students’ rights.

Additionally, revised science, social science, Malayalam, Urdu and Arabic textbooks for upper primary and high school students in the 2024-25 academic year now include lessons on the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol. Similar updates will be introduced in the 2025-26 academic year as well.

Sivankutty stressed the need to educate children about drug abuse and identify the sources through which drugs reach them. The education department plans to launch more initiatives to effectively tackle the issue.

To further strengthen these efforts, the Chief Minister will chair a meeting with various departments and organisations on March 30, 2025 to discuss additional measures.

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