On Thursday, key representatives of GIPSA (Gujarat Independent Pre-School Association) from across Gujarat came together to address the recent stringent rules and discrepancies in pre-school policies. They sought clarifications and advocated for saving pre-schools through the formulation of a new policy. Representatives from Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Gandhinagar presented their concerns to the Chief Minister, Education Minister, Education Secretary, Minister of Women and Child Development, district collectors, and education officers across Gujarat, demanding the annulment of the amended rules and the creation of a new policy.
Presentation on Rules Opposed by Pre-Schools for Registration:
- Acceptance of Building Use (BU) Permission:
Any type of BU permission (residential, commercial, or educational) should be accepted. In cases where BU permission is unavailable, a structural stability certificate should suffice. - Simplified Lease Agreement:
Instead of a 15-year registered lease agreement, an 11-month notarized rental agreement should be permitted to address the issue. - Flexible Ownership Structures:
Options like proprietorship or partnership should be allowed alongside trusts, non-profit companies, or cooperative societies for pre-school registration.
Appeal to the Government:
All core committee members have submitted valid representations to the Honorable Chief Minister, Education Minister, and Minister of Women and Child Development, urging the government not to shut down these small-scale units. They highlighted the importance of institutions that serve children aged 3 to 6 years near their homes, providing maternal care and nurturing, and requested a decision in favor of empowering Gujarat’s women, who have established these units independently.