After a nine-month hiatus due to Covid-19, schools will be reopening this January. Keeping that in mind, the Education Ministry has issued instructions for the reopening of schools.
In its instructions, the Education Ministry has stated that only 50% of students are allowed to attend class at a time. School management must allow children to enter schools only after parents give their consent. Schools should arrange online classes for students who cannot attend school in person. Online classes for class 10 students will be complete on January 15, and for class 12 students, by January 30. The ministry has said that classes should take place in two parts – three hours in the morning and three hours in the evening. If necessary, schools can follow the shift system when it comes to convening classes.
The ministry has directed that from the first week of school reopening, the management must arrange seating where only one child is sitting on a single bench. Sanitizing of school benches, dusters and door handle of classrooms must take place every two hours.
According to the instructions, schools should arrange thermometers, masks, soaps and sanitizers. Schools must ensure that children maintain social distancing in classrooms and school buses at all times. Students and teacher must wear masks at all times. Before entering the school bus, thermal screening should be conducted at all times.
The ministry has added that children should refrain from eating and sharing food, water or other equipment used in school activities. The instructions also mention that counselling should be given to students if needed. Special students should be given extra care.
