Unlock 5: Guidelines: States To Decide On Reopening Schools, Online Classes To Continue

unlock 5 guidelines

Fresh guidelines for Unlock 5 were issued by the government today.

It is decided that Schools and other educational institutions will continue to remain closed till October 15.

According to the new guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) today,  States and Union Territories will take a decision on reopening schools and educational institutions after October 15. The guidelines will come into effect from October 1, 2020.

The new unlock 5 guidelines have been given based on the reviews received from states and union territories and extensive consultations held with related central ministries and departments. Though, the Centre had allowed the partial reopening of schools for senior classes from September 21, several states did reopen for Classes 9 to 12.

The MHA Guidelines have left the state and Union Territories to their own discretion as to when to reopen schools and coaching centers and as to when the can start face-to-face classes. However, online or distance learning shall continue to be the preferred mode of teaching and shall be encouraged.

As per the MHA Guidelines, students will be permitted to attend schools or institutions with the written consent of their parents and attendance must not be enforced. The states and the union territories will prepare their own SOPs regarding the health and safety of all the students and teachers. Schools that are allowed to open shall have to mandatorily follow the SOP to be issued by the Education Departments of States or UTs.

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