The Kerala government has also declared all Saturdays as holidays for ITI trainees, irrespective of their gender.
Published Nov 28, 2024 | 8:22 PM ⚊ Updated Nov 28, 2024 | 8:22 PM
Representative image of a woman suffering with menstrual cramps (iStock)
In a progressive move that would hopefully inspire others, the Kerala government announced on Thursday, 28 November that women trainees at Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) will be granted two days of menstrual leave every month.
Announced by Kerala Education Minister V Shivankutty, this decision addresses the long-standing demand for improved support for women in skill-based training and reflects a broader commitment to gender equality in educational institutions and the workplace.
Additionally, the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government has declared all Saturdays as holidays for ITI trainees, irrespective of their gender.
Circular states that, Kerala State Industrial Trainees’ Council proposed addressing issues faced by women in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). Following this, the Director of Training appointed a committee to study these concerns.
The committee recommended that women trainees be allowed to take leave during their menstrual days, in accordance with Clause 02.10.2(v) of the Training Manual. Supporting this demand, SFI also submitted a request.
However, to compensate for the changes, the timing of classes/training during weekdays has been altered – The first shift will now be from 7.30 am to 3 pm, and the second shift will be from 10 am to 5.30 pm.
Although Saturdays are now designated as holidays, trainees will still have the option to use the day for shop floor training, short-term courses, or other extracurricular activities if they want to, providing them with flexibility in their learning.
In 2023, Kerala government decide to grant for female students in all state universities that come under the Department of Higher Education.
(Edited by Neena with inputs from Sreelakshmi S)
