**1,157 Schools in Kerala Have Buildings Deemed ‘Unfit’ for Classes: Report Presented in Kerala Assembly**

*Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)*: A recent report presented in the Kerala Assembly has revealed that 1,157 schools across the state have buildings classified as “unfit” for holding classes. This information comes from the Local Self Government Department (LSGD), highlighting a concerning scenario despite the state government’s claims of progress in upgrading school infrastructure.

Of the total, a majority of 875 are government schools, while 262 are aided institutions. Additionally, 20 unaided schools were found to have unsafe buildings.

In a written reply to Karunagappally MLA C. R. Mahesh’s question, General Education Minister V. Sivankutty assured that the government is seriously addressing the issue. “While new school buildings are being constructed using plan funds and through KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) projects, separate allocations are also being used for maintenance,” he stated.

District-wise data shows Kollam leading with 143 schools having unfit buildings, followed by Alappuzha with 134, and Thiruvananthapuram with 120 schools.

As per existing regulations, all schools are required to obtain fitness certificates from their respective local authorities prior to reopening every academic year. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for accelerated renovation and safety measures to ensure a secure learning environment for thousands of students statewide.

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### About The Zumba Dance Initiative in Kerala Schools

Earlier in July, Kerala’s schools launched a Zumba dance initiative as part of the curriculum aimed at promoting physical fitness and mental well-being among students. The program is integrated into the state’s anti-drug campaign and is designed to help students manage stress through physical activity.

However, the initiative has faced criticism over concerns of inappropriate mixing between boys and girls.

Roma Mansoor, a certified International Zumba Fitness instructor, told ANI, “I am happy to say that the Kerala government has taken initiative to promote Zumba in schools. It is a great initiative because nowadays children are addicted to many things that ruin their mindset. Zumba can help them relax their mind… It will help the children to increase their confidence. As it is a calorie-burning workout, it is a good move for weight management also.”

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### Opposition from Certain Groups

On June 28, Muslim groups in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram voiced strong objections after the state education department introduced Zumba dance sessions in schools. Their main concern was the intermingling of boys and girls during the dance activities, as well as what they deemed inappropriate attire.

TK Ashraf, a teacher and General Secretary of the Wisdom Islamic Organisation, posted on Facebook expressing his opposition: “Cannot accept this, and my son and I will not participate in this.”

Following Ashraf’s statement, Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama leader Nassar Faizy Koodathai also criticised the sessions, calling them inappropriate and a violation of students’ rights.

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### Government’s Response and Defense

The education department defended the program, emphasizing that Zumba sessions are voluntary and part of a statewide initiative to help students cope with academic pressure and discourage drug abuse. According to officials, the program aims to promote mental and physical well-being and is not mandatory.

Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty strongly defended the inclusion of Zumba in schools, warning that objections to such activities would spread negativity “more deadly than drugs” in society. Addressing concerns about attire, Minister Sivankutty clarified, “No one has asked children to wear minimal clothes. Children are wearing school uniforms and performing this.”

CPI(M) general secretary M.A. Baby also supported the government’s plan, describing the backlash as “absolutely untrue.”

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*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and has been auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/kerala-1157-school-buildings-deemed-unfit-for-classes-govt-pledges-renovation