Unlock 5: Schools to reopen after October 15

source - Times of India 

The ministry of home affairs announced the onset of Unlock 5 from October 1. The guidelines have been released for the reopening of educational institutions.

The State Government has been given the flexibility to choose to open schools and coaching institutions after October 15. The decision can be taken after consulting the respective schools and institution management. Based on their assessment and subject to some conditions, the institutions can be reopened. However, they will need parental consent. 

The conditions are as follows:

1. Online or distance learning shall be encouraged and be the preferred mode of teaching.

2. The students can attend online classes, if they prefer so, where schools are conducting the same.

3. Written consent of parents is compulsory for students to attend schools.

4. Attendance must not be enforced and must depend entirely on parents’ consent.

5. States and UTs will prepare their own SOP concerning health and safety precautions. This SOP will be based on the SOP issued by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

6. SOP issued by the States or UTs is mandatory to be followed by the various educational institutions.

Also Read | Preparing children for the resumption of schools

Under the new guidelines, the Department of Higher Education will decide upon the timing for the opening of Higher Education Institutions, after consulting the Ministry of Home Affairs. With the commencement of Unlock 5, it’s highly likely that schools will reopen.