Meghalaya: We may reopen colleges post-August 15, says Rymbui ​​​​​​​

SHILLONG: 

Meghalaya may open colleges post-August 15, said the state Education Minister, Lahkmen Rymbui on Saturday. The minister, however, added that the decision will be taken in consultation with the Health Department and after reviewing the Covid-19 situation in the state.

 “We may reopen colleges after August 15 but then again, the matter has to be discussed with health officials. Nothing is finalized yet,” said Rymbui.

When asked would it be wise to re-open schools and colleges given the rise in Covid-19 cases in the state, Rymbui said, “Normalcy has to return. We can’t keep sitting at home. It may be okay for people who have the means to survive, but what about the others?”

He said the education department has been receiving a lot of complaints relating to non-payment of salaries to the teachers, connectivity gaps, etc. And the government is working on steps to address the problem.

“If you stay home, you will complain of Internet connectivity issues or inability to purchase a mobile phone. If you go out, you will say there is Covid. Yet you will refrain from taking the vaccine,” Rymbui said, urging the people to get vaccinated to ensure a safe environment for the students.

He, however, maintained that the life and safety of citizens will not be compromised and the decision will be taken after reviewing the Covid-19 situation.

As of August 7, Meghalaya registered 524 fresh cases with 709 recoveries. Seven people succumbed to the virus, out of which, six were not vaccinated.