Thiruvananthapuram: When schools reopen on June 2, the initial two weeks will shift focus away from textbooks to life-skill education and social awareness. The Department of Public Education has mandated sessions addressing key societal issues—ranging from drug abuse and public property destruction to digital discipline and emotional well-being.

A preparatory workshop for teachers will be organized to develop structured guidelines, with support from the Police, Excise, and Child Rights Commission.

Students in grades 1–10 will attend these sessions for two weeks starting June 2, while higher secondary students will participate for one week from July 18. Topics will include drug use, responsible vehicle use, personal hygiene, exam stress, and the influence of mobile and social media habits.

Friendship clubs in 1,680 higher secondary schools will be strengthened to tackle teenage mental health challenges and suicide prevention. Additionally, Minister V. Sivankutty emphasized safety measures for student transport, mandating police clearance for vehicle staff and banning heavy vehicles during student commute times.

Cooking staff must also carry valid health cards. The state-level school reopening festival will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at Kalavoor Government Higher Secondary School in Alappuzha.