Resumption of normal class respite for restless kids
- The People's Chronicle Editorial :: July 07, 2023 -

THOUGH maximum number of students enrolled in different schools missed the first day at school, it's heartening to see the children return to class with effect from Wednesday after over two months of shutting down all the educational institutions as part of the pre-emptive measures in the wake of the calamitous ethnic clash.

Even if the attendance rate was sub-par the numbers will definitely rise as no parent would cherish their children idling at home when their peers have formally joined the learning and character-building process.

While it will take some time to shift security forces from schools and colleges, some of which are also being utilised as relief camps for people displaced by the violence, the fact that normal classes have resumed will compel the govern-ment authorities to find suitable accommoda-tion for the additional central forces brought into the state to contain the feud as prolonged occupation of educational institutions will be self-contradictory to the establishment's pur-pose and policy for resuming academic activities amid the challenging situation.

Moreover, if no serious disturbance is caused to the education sector it's obvious that parents shall weigh the pros and cons of not sending their children to school located in safer zones.

With the ethnic violence bringing educational activities to a grinding halt and forcing the government to extend the summer vacation period multiple times, a sense of rejoice among the students was visible on Wednesday despite mixed reactions from different quarters over the government's decision to resume classes for Ito VIII standard in-spite of the threat perception.

That the parents aren't enthusiastic to see their children leave home for school could be comprehended from the attendance rate hov-ering around the 20-30 per cent mark for it is but natural for every parent to prioritise safety of their children when there is lingering ap-prehension about aggravation of the situation anytime.

Apart from the ethnic tension, there has been a trend in Manipur wherein civil societies involve students in public movement on differ-ent issues.

Thus, it is rationale for the parents to worry that their children might be taken out from class to join street protest.

However, with extension of ban on internet service likely in the coming days as well and possibility of conduct of online class out of the context at present, the parents would be hard-pressed to ponder over the wisdom of depriving their children life's basic need. Despite the challenging situation, it could be comprehended that the government would be leaving no stone unturned to make up for the loss suffered by the students owing to the violence.

Thus, the government's endeavour to resume normal classes needs the support and cooperation of all sections of the society, the civil societies in particular.

In case of any disruption caused to the education sector then it is obvious that elements inimical to restora-tion of peace and harmony in Manipur would be having the last laugh.

Moreover, security agencies and civil societies need to be on high alert to foil any attempt to cause harm to the children, physically or mentally.