The Goa government’s Directorate of Education has issued new directions to all educational institutions in the state, stating that external individuals, organisations, or groups will no longer be permitted to conduct seminars, lectures, or interactions with students without prior written approval from the directorate. This move aims to ‘safeguard the academic environment’ and maintain the integrity of educational institutions.
The decision was made after the directorate received a communication from the office of the District Magistrate, North Goa, citing a police report regarding concerns raised about the ideological influence and activities of the Students Islamic Organisation of India (SIO). A circular issued by the directorate of education on July 6 stated that the Superintendent of Police, Special Branch, Panaji, has reported certain activities of the SIO, which are perceived to be potentially anti-social and anti-national in nature.
According to the circular, imparting communal knowledge or conducting non-educational activities within schools is in contravention of the provisions of the Goa School Education Act, 1984, and Rules, 1986. To prevent any adverse impact on national security and communal harmony, the directorate has emphasized the need for vigilance and timely intervention.
The new regulations require educational institutions to obtain prior written approval from the competent authority before allowing external individuals or groups to engage with students. The request for approval must be accompanied by complete details, including credentials of the organisation, names and profiles of speakers, and a written draft or script of the proposed lecture or activity.
A responsible faculty member will be required to supervise the proceedings and ensure that the content remains within the bounds of the prescribed curriculum, constitutional values, and public order. After the programme, the Head of the Institution will be required to submit a brief report to the directorate, including the nature of the programme conducted and certification that no objectionable or unauthorised content was imparted.
The circular has been issued in the interest of maintaining a safe, neutral, and academically focused environment in all educational institutions. All schools will be required to maintain a proper register of external visitors and activities conducted on their premises, along with supporting documents of approvals obtained. Any suspicious activity or attempt by unauthorised individuals or groups to engage with students will be reported immediately to the local authorities as well as to the directorate for necessary action.
