JEDDAH — Jeddah Keralites Forum (JKF), an umbrella organization of prominent Keralite groups, has demanded immediate elections to fill seats on the managing committee of International Indian School here. Speaking at a press briefing, they cited the absence of an elected committee in a school where about 12,000 students pursue their education while other international Indian schools in the Kingdom are governed by democratically elected committees of parents. An elected committee, they claimed, would make the functioning of the school transparent and would strengthen efforts to improve the quality of education. For the last few years, nominated committees have been managing the academic and administrative affairs of the school. These committees have failed to improve the academic standards of the school, the forum leaders said.“The committees could not find lasting solutions to the problems faced by students, parents and the school. Several allegations about the functioning of such committees still remain unsolved," they said.“A community school that molds future generations should have a strong and efficient managing committee led by parents. This will give clarity to the school's functioning and will leave no room for suspicions."They alleged that the authorities have set impossible eligibility criteria for those aspiring to serve on the school committee. “JKF requests the authorities to review the criteria and eligibility of candidates," they said.JKF Chairman P.T. Muhammed presided over the press conference. V.K. Raof, K.M. Shareef Kunju, K.T.A. Muneer, Pazheri Kunji Muhammed, K.P. Aboobaker and Latheef Malappuram attended.JKF convener P.P. Raheem welcomed the press and Kunjavutty A. Khader delivered the vote of thanks. — SG
