Kochi: The education department has made a list of 57 schools in Ernakulam district operating without a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the state govt. Of these, 50 schools follow CBSE or ICSE curricula, while the remaining seven follow the state syllabus. The move is part of a statewide initiative to identify institutions functioning without required approvals. Ernakulam district has 186 CBSE-affiliated schools, and those now flagged as unauthorized face the risk of closure, a development that could affect thousands of students enrolled in these institutions. The deputy directorate of education (DDE), Ernakulam, has also written to the concerned local self-govts, stating that these schools are operating without proper licences. Local bodies are responsible for issuing key documents such as building permits and occupancy certificates, which form part of the compliance framework for schools.

Deputy director of education, Ernakulam, Subin Paul, said most of the schools lacking affiliation operate at the primary and upper primary levels. “Most of them have classes below Class V. High schools and higher secondary schools are relatively fewer in number. We have informed the local bodies, as they are the authorities that issue various permits required by schools,” he said.

The list was compiled by education officers from the education districts of Ernakulam, Aluva, Muvattupuzha, and Kothamangalam. Officials clarified that the list is not exhaustive, as the verification process is still ongoing and more schools could be added later.

At the state level, director general of education Umesh NS said data on unauthorized schools is being collected across Kerala. So far, 1,088 schools have been identified statewide. Notices will be issued seeking explanations from managements on why they have not obtained the necessary recognition.

“We will go ahead with legal action and a high-level decision will be taken soon. In the initial phase, we will seek explanations from the schools and understand the challenges they faced in securing NOCs. Many of them did not apply at all. All procedures will be carried out in a manner that does not affect the academic future of enrolled students,” Umesh said.

Meanwhile, the CBSE Management Association said delays in obtaining NOCs often stem from minor procedural issues that can be corrected. Association president K Moosa said schools may need additional time to comply.

“In most cases, the issues can be rectified and schools can continue operations. CBSE affiliation is important, and institutions may require more time to complete the formalities,” he said.

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