The education minister V Sivankutty has announced a set of new reforms under the “Girls First” approach, giving priority to facilities and policies that directly support female students. The proposal includes upgrading infrastructure like separate toilets, safe transportation, and hostel facilities, along with introducing gender-sensitive curriculum changes. The reforms are being seen as a push towards creating an inclusive and supportive environment that ensures girls not only enrol but also continue their education without hurdles.
I am writing about this because the focus on girls’ education is one of the most important aspects of building a strong and equal society. Even today, many families hesitate to send their daughters to school due to safety concerns, lack of basic amenities, or financial difficulties. When policymakers make girls’ needs a priority, it directly addresses these barriers and encourages parents to support their daughters’ education. I believe this is not just about building infrastructure, but also about changing mindsets and ensuring that girls get equal opportunities to learn and grow. Talking about these reforms is important because they can influence how communities respond to education and inspire similar initiatives across the country.
Key Features of the Proposed Reforms
Some of the main reforms proposed under the “Girls First” policy include:
- Construction of separate, hygienic toilets for girls in all schools.
- Safe and affordable transport facilities for girls, especially in rural areas.
- Expansion of hostel facilities to reduce dropout rates.
- Introducing health and nutrition awareness programmes focused on girls.
- Revising textbooks to promote gender equality and break stereotypes.
Why the Focus on Girls Matters
Statistics show that dropout rates among girls in secondary schools are higher compared to boys, often due to lack of safety and resources. For instance, in many rural areas, the absence of basic facilities like toilets leads to girls missing classes during certain days, eventually forcing them to quit school. The proposed reforms aim to directly address these ground-level issues.
Impact on Families and Communities
When girls continue their education, it benefits not just them but also their families and communities. Educated girls are more likely to pursue careers, delay early marriage, and contribute to household income. Parents, too, gain confidence when schools provide safe and supportive environments.
Building an Equal Future
The reforms show a clear recognition that without gender-sensitive policies, India cannot achieve true progress in education. By making girls the centre of reforms, the government is setting a path where schools are not just centres of learning but also spaces of equality and safety.
