State Education Minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama revealed that the government reached the decision "in the interest of students" during a cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani in Gandhinagar.
While announcing the 'Unlock-4' norms earlier this month, the Centre had clarified that the final call to reopen schools from September 21 for Classes 9 to 12 will be taken by respective states, the education minister added.
"The Centre had clarified that it's not compulsory for states to implement these SOPs from September 21. There is a risk of transmission of the virus if students gather at one place. It is not advisable for students to visit schools in the present situation," Bhupendrasinh Chudasama said.
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Therefore, the schools in Gujarat will remain closed even after September 21 and appropriate decision will be taken once the situation improves, Mr Chudasama concluded while adding that online education will continue to be the method adopted.
MHA's Directive On Reopening Schools
- States/ UTs may permit up to 50% of teaching and non-teaching staff to be called to the schools at a time for online teaching/ tele- counselling and related work.
- Students of Classes 9 to 12 may be permitted to visit their schools in areas outside the Containment Zones, on a voluntary basis, for taking guidance from their teachers.
- This will be subject to the written consent of their parents or guardians.
- Such visits and teacher-student interaction must be organized in a staggered manner.
(With Agency Inputs)
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