In a landmark move towards ensuring equal educational opportunities, the Kerala State Government has unveiled a significant initiative to offer free travel in Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses for students hailing from extremely poor households. The announcement, made by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is a testament to the state’s commitment to eradicating extreme poverty and promoting accessible education.
Empowering Students Through Free Travel
The Kerala State Government has taken a substantial stride in making education more accessible for students from extremely impoverished backgrounds
Chief Minister’s Announcement
- Inclusive Travel: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the decision to provide free travel for students from extremely poor homes on Wednesday, during a meeting focused on the government’s proposed Extreme Poverty Eradication Scheme.
- Commitment to Equity: This initiative reflects the government’s determination to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder student’s access to education and knowledge.
Data-Driven Approach
The government’s move to provide free KSRTC bus rides to students from extremely poor families is based on the data gathered from a comprehensive door-to-door survey conducted by the Local Self-Government Department. Last year, the government reported a total of 64,006 extremely poor families in the state.
A Path to Eradicating Extreme Poverty
The Kerala State Government has set an ambitious goal of eradicating extreme poverty by November 2025. This multi-phase plan aims to achieve the first phase this year and the second phase by the end of 2024.
Comprehensive Support for Students
Beyond providing free KSRTC bus rides for educational purposes, the government is committed to offering a comprehensive support system for students from extremely poor families:
- Access to Nearby Schools: After the tenth standard, students will have the option to study at schools near their homes, fostering convenience and accessibility.
- Higher Education Scholarships: The government plans to provide scholarships for higher education, enabling deserving students to pursue their academic aspirations without financial constraints.
- Stipends and Free Food: Additionally, the government aims to ensure that students receive stipends and access to free meals at college canteens, enhancing their overall learning experience.
As the state strives to eradicate extreme poverty by facilitating accessible education, this initiative serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter and more inclusive future for Kerala’s youth.
Source : onmanorama
