The Kerala government has taken a progressive step by introducing a monthly menstrual leave policy for female students enrolled in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
Under this policy, female trainees will receive two days of menstrual leave each month. This initiative recognizes the physically demanding nature of skill-training programs, including those in traditionally labor-intensive trades where women are excelling.
“In today’s era, women are active in every field, including some of the most physically demanding skill-training trades. Taking these factors into account, the government has decided to grant two days of menstrual leave each month for female trainees in ITIs,” announced General Education Minister V. Sivankutty.
This policy builds on Kerala’s earlier decision to offer menstrual leave to female students across universities under the higher education department, showcasing the state’s commitment to student welfare. With over 100 ITIs across Kerala set to implement the policy, a large number of female students are expected to benefit from this supportive measure.
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Saturday Holidays for ITI Students
In addition to menstrual leave, the Kerala government has designated Saturdays as holidays for all ITI students. To accommodate this change without disrupting training schedules, adjustments have been made to the shift timings:
- First Shift: 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
- Second Shift: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
While Saturdays are officially non-working days, students can utilize the day for extracurricular activities, shop-floor training, or short-term courses if they choose.
These initiatives reflect Kerala’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and flexible learning environment for ITI students, especially women while maintaining the quality of education and skill training.
