Maharashtra schools are set to reopen for students in classes 8 to 12 in regions that have reported no COVID-19 cases in the past month. This significant decision by the Maharashtra government allows schools in these designated areas to resume offline teaching from July 15, 2021. This move aims to address the urgent need for in-person education, especially for students from all sections of society. Varsha Gaikwad, the state’s school education minister, emphasized the importance of a collaborative educational approach to reach every child in Maharashtra.
Students returning to school in Maharashtra following the 2021 reopening announcement.
Prior to the reopening, vaccination for all teaching and non-teaching staff is being prioritized to ensure a safe environment for students. Stringent COVID-19 guidelines will be enforced as a precautionary measure against a potential third wave. An eight-member committee, including collectors, school principals, and health officials, will identify and monitor COVID-free zones to facilitate the safe reopening of schools.
Minister Gaikwad stated, as reported by NDTV, that vaccinating all school staff is a primary requirement before schools can resume operations. The state government has mandated strict adherence to all COVID-19 prevention protocols. Any negligence in implementing these rules will not be tolerated, especially considering the potential risks of a third wave.
Highlighting a specific example, Minister Gaikwad mentioned Jaya village, where no COVID-19 cases have been reported in the last month. If the village council decides to maintain this COVID-free status, schools for classes 8 to 12 in Jaya village will be permitted to reopen from July 15.
COVID-19 Guidelines for School Reopening in Maharashtra’s COVID-Free Zones
The Maharashtra government has issued specific guidelines to ensure the safe reopening of schools in COVID-free zones:
- Limited Class Size: Classrooms will operate at a reduced capacity, with a maximum of 15 to 20 students per class to maintain social distancing.
- Social Distancing: Schools must ensure a minimum distance of six feet between students within the classrooms.
- Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap will be mandatory for all students and staff.
- Masks are Compulsory: The use of face masks will be mandatory for everyone on school premises.
- Symptom Monitoring: Students displaying any COVID-19 symptoms will be immediately sent home to prevent potential spread.
- Comprehensive Precautions: All COVID-19 related precautions and guidelines issued by both the central and state governments must be strictly implemented and followed by all schools.
