Independence Day draws closer, yet students relying on their uniforms

Subrahmanya: The school children wish to celebrate the Independence Day by wearing new uniforms but it seems their wishes shall remain unfulfilled. The education department has not yet received the uniforms and hence none have been distributed to the students. Seems like the students will have to rely on their old uniforms for Aug 15!

All government primary and high schools reopened on June 1^st and although two months have passed by, the students have not yet received their uniforms.

The government had decided last year, to provide 2 pairs of uniform to children studying at government schools. But all that was provided was socks, shoes and only a single pair or uniform.

In the previous years, the uniforms were purchased and distributed by the school development committee and in-charge committee and the uniforms were stitched in accordance to their heights. The government used to release the amount as per the requirement list submitted to it by the respective schools and the amount would be deposited into the SDMC accounts. There are numerous instances wherein the released amount would fall short to the requirement and hence, members of SDMC, teachers and donors would provide donations through which the uniforms were stitched and provided to the students.

Later, discussions were held on the government level regarding the uniforms of the students. As per the proposal put forth during the Belagavi session, the government came forward to purchase and distribute the uniforms strictly through the Education Department by calling in tenders on the state level. Since this has not yet been conducted, the delay has ensued. Besides, it is being said that there is a lack of funds as well.

The commissioner has informed that the tender process is in motion for the distribution of shoes, socks and uniform to school children. We believe it will be distributed soon. The uniforms will be distributed after the tender process has been conducted on the state level – S P Mahadeva, Regional Education Officer, Sullia

In Udupi, the uniforms for school children has not yet come. The school SDMC is being provided with the money for the procurement of shoes, socks. The tender process has just begun – Sheshashayana Karinja, DDPI, Udupi district