From September 15, all government, aided, and private schools in Maharashtra must set up at least one student club. This move makes student clubs a compulsory part of school activities across the state.
The School Education Department issued a directive mandating the formation of clubs in areas like arts, science, environment, sports, health, and social awareness.
Maharashtra Schools to Mandate Student Clubs from September 15
Officials explained that the initiative is meant to extend learning beyond classrooms and foster leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving among students.
A senior department official said: “The idea is to create a space where children can explore interests, nurture talents, and work together on projects that build confidence and civic responsibility.”
Schools are required to inform both parents and students about the clubs and guarantee equal opportunities for participation.
Teachers will serve as mentors, while students are expected to take the lead in planning activities, holding discussions, and organising events.
School heads have been asked to submit compliance reports by the deadline.
Inspections will be carried out to ensure the clubs are genuinely functional and not just created on paper, and that they remain active for the entire academic year.
This directive aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which stresses experiential learning and the cultivation of “21st-century skills” like creativity, communication, and critical thinking.
Educationists Welcome Student Clubs, Say Move Could Reduce Academic Stress
Educationists have welcomed the move, noting it could help ease academic stress by encouraging students to engage in non-academic activities.
Some school administrators, however, expressed concerns about the lack of resources and time needed to implement the new mandate effectively.
The department plans to release additional guidelines specifying the types of projects clubs can work on, such as cleanliness drives, road safety awareness, cultural showcases, and science exhibitions.
School authorities interviewed by THE WEEK showed mixed reactions—some praised the initiative, while others criticised it for potentially cutting into students’ study time.
The principal of a prominent high school in Central Mumbai said: “Already with so many holidays in the upcoming holiday season, completing the syllabus is a challenge for teachers. Now this requirement of establishing student clubs will clearly impact a child’s academic learning time.”
Parents, however, expressed satisfaction, appreciating that the Education Department is encouraging development beyond academics.
Ayush Mopariah, a parent from Andheri, said: “It is definitely a welcome move and we are all for it.”
