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BENGALURU: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has asked all schools affiliated to it to do psychometric evaluation of their employees.

The circular which came in the wake of the brutal murder of a 7-year-old student at Ryan International , Noida, stated: “Schools must get police verification and psychometric evaluation done for all the staff employed. Such verification and evaluation for non-teaching staff such as bus drivers, conductors, peons and other support staff may be done very carefully and in a detailed manner.“

The board, in its September 12 circular, further said: “Any violationlapses with regard to safety and well-being of children on the school campus would invite appropriate action, including disaffiliation of the school as per provisions under affiliation by-laws of the board.“

Psychometric evaluation is an assessment of a person's mental capabilities and behavioural style through scientific method.Mixed response The circular, however, evoked a mixed response. Shashi Kumar, secretary, Karnataka Associated Management of English Medium Schools said: “I condemn this circular. This is just a knee-jerk reaction from the CBSE. Who should be the authority doing such an evaluation? What are the parameters? And who will take responsibility if something happens after the evaluation?“ Mansoor Ali Khan , president, Managements of Independent CBSE Schools Association, Karnataka, said, “We don't mind implementing the guidelines for psychometric evaluation, as they'll offer more insight into behavioural issues and personality traits of staffers.Security of schoolchildren is paramount and we'll ensure that at every level.“

CBSE has set a two-month deadline for schools to file a compliance report. “Schools must adhere to the guidelines of CBSE and MHRD for child protection in schools. Else they may face disaffiliation,“ the circular specifies.

T he board has asked schools to get security safety audits done on their premises and follow security-related advice for the safety of schoolchildren. An online petition was moved by parents from across India, demanding mandatory safety audits in every school to prevent crimes against children on school premises.Over 2 lakh people have supported the petition, with the count growing.

Asking schools to follow safety guidelines issued by CBSE from time to time, the circular insisted on schools promoting an understanding among staff about laws related to safety, security and interests of students. Staff members should also be educated to recognize their protective obligation towards students and to ensure safety and well-being of children in schools.

