'State Govt yet to decide on reopening schools'
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, September 11 2020:
Education Minister Dr Thokchom Radheshyam today informed the media that the State Government is yet to take a decision on reopening of schools from September 21 for students of Class IX to XII.
Several rounds of meetings and conferences are being held with stakeholders on the feasibility, criteria and steps that may be needed for school reopening, he said.
Addressing a press conference held at his office chamber, New Secretariat, Radheshyam said that an SOP was issued by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Directorate General of Health Services (EMR Division), Government of India for partial reopening of schools for students of Class IX to XII on a voluntary basis.
He further stated that the SOP is for partial reopening of schools and not for regular classes.
It is purely on a voluntary basis, that is, if the students of Classes IX to XII are willing to go to school voluntarily.
There is no compulsion that students must attend school.
The parents also have to give their consent in writing if their wards, children are willing to attend school.
There will be no regular classes, he added.
Reiterating that a final decision on the partial reopening of schools is yet to be taken, the Education Minister said that it is very "unfortunate" that misinformation on reopening of schools has created confusion and anguish among the parents, students and teachers fraternity.
A final decision on reopening of schools will be taken in a meeting with the Chief Minister and stakeholders taking into account the current situation of COVID-19 in the State.
Until the State Government issues SOP for reopening of the schools, no educational institutions and students' hostels are authorized to open and resume classes, he added.