Centre issues guidelines ahead of reopening of educational institutes

The central government on Tuesday announced standard operating procedures (SOP) on preventive measures to help contain the spread of COVID-19, ahead of the reopening of schools, colleges and other educational institutes. 

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in a statement said, “Government is following a phase-wise unlocking of activities. In days to come, this would involve partial resumption of activities in schools for students of classes 9 to 12 on a voluntary basis, for taking guidance from their teachers. This would be allowed from September 21.”

Students who wish to consult their teachers in-person must obtain a written consent from their parents or guardians, the ministry reiterated in its guidelines. “Such visits and teacher-student interaction must be organized in a staggered manner,” the statement said.

Only the schools that are outside containment zones are allowed to open, the statement said.

“Further, students, teachers and employees living in containment zones will not be allowed to attend the school. Students, teachers and employees shall also be advised not to visit areas falling within containment zones,” it added.

Use of sanitisers, maintaining a distance of minimum six feet, use of face masks, and other such measures have been made mandatory.

Only 50% of employees are allowed inside the school premises and those with COVID-19 symptoms will not be allowed to enter. Assemblies, sports and other such events have been strictly prohibited.