Sun Feb 16 12:48:12 UTC 2025: ## Kerala CM Reaffirms Commitment to Public Schools, Inaugurates New Building
**Kannur, Kerala – February 16, 2025** – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated a new ₹20 crore building at the Peralassery AKG Memorial Government Higher Secondary School on Sunday, reaffirming the state government’s unwavering commitment to public education. The new facility boasts 41 classrooms, 12 smart classrooms, a computer lab, an auditorium, and a lift.
Vijayan’s address highlighted the transformative changes in Kerala’s public education system since 2016. He recalled a time when widespread neglect led to a five lakh student dropout rate and a proposed closure of 4,000 “unprofitable” schools. The LDF government, he stated, launched a public education protection mission, investing ₹5,000 crore in school development and enlisting the support of students, teachers, alumni, parents, and local governments. This initiative, he said, has earned consistent recognition from NITI Aayog.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of free public education, particularly for children from economically weaker sections, warning against over-reliance on private institutions and their potentially prohibitive fees. He highlighted the inclusive nature of Kerala’s public schools, which cater to the children of migrant workers, ensuring that no child is left behind. Vijayan concluded by urging the public to disregard misinformation regarding the state’s educational progress. Public Education and Employment Minister V. Sivankutty presided over the inauguration ceremony.
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