In a recent move, the Gujarat government has taken a firm stance against the consumption of tobacco and cigarettes by teachers in schools. The Education Department has issued a circular to all district education officers, stating that strict legal action will be taken against any teacher found consuming addictive substances within the school premises.
The Education Department has highlighted the alarming trend of the sale of addictive substances like pan masala and cigarettes around school premises. Additionally, some teachers openly consume these substances in front of students, which could have adverse effects on them.
Following complaints received by the Chief Minister’s Office, an order has been issued to ban the consumption of tobacco products by teachers in all schools. The Chief Minister emphasized that the sanctity of education should be maintained, and any form of addiction within school premises is unacceptable. Stringent action will be taken against teachers found violating this order.
The Gujarat State School Board has supported the government’s order to ban the consumption of pan masala and cigarettes by teachers. Bhaskar Patel, the chairman of the board, stated that this step would help keep students away from addictive substances and provide them with a healthy learning environment.
Strict Measures Enforced: Gujarat Schools Crack Down on Tobacco Use, Encourage Parental Support
All schools have been instructed to comply with the government circular. If any teacher, principal, clerk, or other staff member is found consuming pan masala or cigarettes within the school premises, they will face financial penalties, and their actions will be recorded in official records. Bhaskar Patel further emphasized that teachers play a crucial role in guiding students, and indulging in addictive substances would set a negative example for them.
It is essential for parents to also play their part in keeping children away from addictive substances. This order is not limited to Gujarat alone, as the Education Department encourages other states to issue similar directives. Consumption of pan masala and cigarettes not only jeopardizes the health of teachers but also contaminates the school environment. Parents must fulfill their role in keeping children away from addictive substances.