- Unlock guidelines have allowed the systematic opening of all stalled activities gradually keeping in mind the sensitivities, relevance, and imperativeness involved in the kick-starting economic uptick. Except for allowing swimming pools, cinema, and large gatherings, every other veritable sector is given go-ahead to resume full-fledged functioning. Most notably, the educational institutions and colleges too can open from the third week of September which is indeed a welcome move for sure.
PC: pwtag
- Looking specifically at the prospect of reopening of schools for Grade 9 to 12, the Standard Operating Procedures elucidates that students are to be allowed to visit institutes to clear doubts, seek clarifications, and general discussions with the teacher’s concerned. Nowhere it is mentioned allowing for schools to conduct regular classes as in earlier times. Of course, observing all stringent measures to keep the infection at a distance is imperative.
- In an interesting move, students’ visits to schools will be made possible only after obtaining the written consent of the individual parents expressing willingness to allow visitations. The latest guidelines suggest that the authorities are treading cautiously, weighing all options and after careful deliberations, have issued instructions with regards to the same. Understandably, the authorities are loath to hurry things upon such a sensitive issue and would gingerly test the waters before trudging ahead.
PC: Manoj Kumar
- Schools are extremely sensitive and equally vulnerable sectors necessitating careful handling of the situation as the ever-surging infection rates appear nowhere near flattening and/or plateauing any time soon. No wonder, the parents will be dreadfully worried about the prospects of sending their wards to the schools. Trust me, with the cases spiking up exponentially across the country and the vaccine still to see the day of light, the parent community will be extremely reticent on the move.
- Moot point to ponder over here is how prepared are the schools, especially government, aided, lesser-known unaided institutes, in strictly adhering to the prescribed safety and health guidelines. Well-nigh impossible is the word, as regards to implementation and adherence to stringent measures enunciated by the authorities. Many of these schools lack basic amenities like proper classrooms, drinking water facilities, and toilets. Compromising on hygiene will be catastrophic.
PC: unicef
- Knowing fully well about the lacunas existing in public schools will act as a deterrent for parents to firm up in sending their wards. Elite or for that matter well-to-do private schools will be leaving no stone unturned in ensuring every single measure and some more in line with the guidelines are made available on the ground. As things stand now, the ball is firmly in the court of parents as they are expected to essay a defining role on the matter. Fingers crossed!
