Maharashtra govt asks all schools to start alumni associations

Mumbai, Oct 3 (PTI) The Maharashtra government has issued a GR directing all schools to form alumni associations, an official said on Friday.

These include schools run by Zilla Parishads and municipal corporations, as well as aided and unaided private ones, he added citing the government resolution issued on October 1.

"Each school from Class 1 to 12 will have an alumni association. which will consist of former students along with advisory members such as the principal, one teacher, a parent representative, and education department officials. The alumni associations will be expected to contribute to the academic, infrastructural, cultural, and social development of their respective schools," as per the GR.

Their key responsibilities will include assisting with infrastructure upgrades such as libraries, laboratories, sanitation facilities, and digital resources; organising expert lectures, competitions and guidance sessions for competitive exams; and supporting initiatives in sports, cultural activities and digital literacy, it added.

Each association must hold at least two meetings annually, which may be conducted online or offline, while alumni gatherings and reunions must be organised every year, preferably around school events or festivals, with prior intimation at least 15 days in advance, it said.

"To ensure transparency, schools have been advised to avoid direct cash transactions and maintain proper accounts of any contributions received from alumni. Outstanding alumni may also support meritorious students through awards and scholarships. Education officials at the state, divisional and district levels will monitor and guide the formation and functioning of these associations," it said.

The government also plans to create an online platform for alumni registration and activity tracking, with the aim of strengthening ties between former students and their alma maters, promote community participation, and encourage collective efforts for improving the quality of school education across Maharashtra. PTI MR BNM