Schools in Maharashtra Required to Set Up Student Clubs by September 15

If you’re in Maharashtra and still in school, get ready for a change. From September 15, every school across the state, whether government, private, or aided, will be required to set up at least one student club. This is part of the state’s effort to move beyond textbooks and encourage holistic education.

The School Education Department has made it mandatory for schools to create clubs in areas like arts, science, environment, sports, health, and social awareness. The goal is simple: give students a space where they can explore interests, develop skills, and build confidence.

A senior official explained that these clubs will help students learn leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. “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,” the official said.

Schools are expected to inform students and parents about the clubs and ensure equal opportunities for participation. Teachers will guide the students, but the clubs will be largely student-driven, meaning students will plan activities, lead discussions, and organise events themselves.

Compliance will be monitored, and schools will have to submit reports proving that these clubs are active and not just set up for paperwork. Inspections will be carried out to ensure the initiative is being implemented throughout the academic year.

This move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages experiential learning and focuses on building creativity, communication, and critical thinking.

Education experts have welcomed the initiative, saying it will help reduce academic pressure by promoting extra-curricular activities. On the other hand, some school heads are worried about practical challenges. A principal from Central Mumbai pointed out, “With so many holidays coming up, completing the syllabus is already difficult. Adding student clubs will cut into academic learning time.”

Parents, however, are largely supportive. A parent from Andheri, said, “It’s a great step. Education should go beyond books and help children grow in different areas. We are all for it.”

The state’s education department has also listed 34 different types of student groups, ranging from environmental clubs and science projects to competitions and professional training. Schools must ensure that every student is part of at least one group without adding to their stress. Guidelines and templates for running these clubs have been made available by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).

The initiative is expected to not only enrich students’ learning experience but also prepare them for challenges beyond academics.