8,000 students in schools battle diabetes; teachers still untrained for emergencies

KOCHI: More than 8,000 children living with diabetes are currently enrolled in schools across the state. Although a decision was made years ago to train teachers to care for these students during emergencies, the plan has not yet been implemented. A recent promise from the Education Department to begin training during this summer vacation has also fallen through.

The Child Rights Commission had previously ordered that at least two teachers in every school receive specialised training. The lack of awareness among staff has caused significant anxiety for parents. Some parents are even forced to wait outside schools from morning until evening because they fear for their children's safety. Proper teacher training would eliminate this struggle.

In situations like hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), immediate first aid is critical, and in some cases, insulin must be administered. Currently, teachers lack the training to handle such tasks. Many are also unaware of the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the necessity of taking timely snacks, or how to monitor blood sugar levels.

Necessary school medical kits:
1. Teachers should be trained via DIET on how to use insulin pens and read glucometers.
2. Every school should be equipped with emergency kits containing glucose tablets or sweet drinks.
3. A system should be established to contact the Health Department immediately if a child’s sugar levels fluctuate dangerously.

"We have not received any instructions to provide training for teachers. It is unlikely to happen this time."
- Dr A R Supriya, Project Director, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Kerala.

"Every school needs expertly trained teachers. The brief introductory classes currently provided are simply not enough."
- Bushra Shihab, Parent of a diabetic child.