Himachal Pradesh shuts educational institutions due to increase in COVID-19 cases

Mumbai: All educational institutions in Himachal Pradesh will be shut from immediate effect as per the order of the state government. The schools were reopened from 2nd November for students of classes nine to 12. The decision to close educational institutions has been taken in the wake of a steep rise in COVID numbers and infection spreading among students and teachers.

Parliamentary affairs minister Suresh Bhardwaj said that the cabinet had decided to announce a special vacation for all educational institutions including schools, colleges, coaching institutions, etc. from November 11 to November 25. It is important to note that about 125 government school teachers were tested positive for the Coronavirus raising serious concerns of community spread. The state also recorded the highest number of 711 positive cases yesterday.

The schools and colleges were reopened in the state after 74 per cent of parents agreed to the reopening. Surprisingly, the attendance in the schools and colleges barely touched 30 per cent. The classes for medical and dental students have also been postponed until 25th November for now. Their examinations which are due will also be delayed due to this rise in cases and additional vacation.

The COVID situation in the state which seemed under control is now witnessing a rapid rise in the positive cases. The chances of transmission among students who come from different places remain high. The closing down of the institutions should help bring the numbers under control and prevent the spread among the students.

State governments across the country are trying to reopen the educational institutions in a phased manner after they were first shut in March. However, the growing concerns of spread among students and the rise in daily numbers are forcing the government’s hand. The safety and health of students and everyone at large is the primary concern for the governments.

Hemal V