New guidelines by October 20 for resuming classes: Assam Minister

GUWAHATI:

The Assam education department will issue new standard operating procedures (SOPs) by October 20 for resuming classes in schools from standard VI upwards by November.

While addressing reporters, State Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the SOPs for resuming classes for students, barring the primary level, would be in sync with the Centre’s directives and the established COVID protocols.

The Union ministry had recently issued SOPs for reopening schools after October 15.

According to the Centre’s guidelines, schools and coaching institutions can open in a graded manner after October 15.

However, the decision on whether to reopen educational institutions will depend on the States and Union Territories (UTs).

ALSO READ: Tura engineer to receive Global Corporate Award

The Assam education department is likely to allow the resumption of classes from November 2 onwards.

“We have not taken any decision regarding reopening schools (for standards VI upwards) from November but are contemplating the same keeping in mind the Durga Puja festival (from October 23). The new SOPs will be issued between October 15 and 20,” Sarma said.

The minister, however, said that classes for high and higher secondary students (from standards IX to XII) have been continuing in schools and colleges of Assam on a voluntary basis and amid adherence to the prescribed COVID protocols.

In the wake of the pandemic though, students can however attend classes upon producing a consent letter from parents/guardians.

“However, hostels may not be allowed to open,” he said.