All educational institutions in the country will be reopened on May 23 as per the previous decision of the Education Ministry. The ministry has directed all institutions to take necessary preparations for reopening classes. Physical taking of class in all educational institutions are remaining closed since 17 March 2020, though virtual classes are being held in a limited number of urban schools and colleges. Earlier in February, the education minister announced that the schools and colleges would reopen on Mar 30 but resurgence of Covid-19 barred the ministry from executing the plan. If the pandemic situation improves, reopening educational institution is the most expected step to bring students back to schools.
The government cancelled the PEC tests for fifth graders, JSC tests for the eighth graders and annuals exams of other grades last year due to the pandemic while HSC results were published by averaging the scores of JSC and SSC results. However, a sharp rise in the infection rate in neighbouring India is worrying us and creating pressure to gear up our preparedness to face a strong wave of Coronavirus. We admit that the price of school closure is high as most children are deprived of learning in the classroom and outdoor activities, mid-day meal, stipend and other facilities.
Under the prevailing circumstances, individual schools need to be helped to develop their own work plan for reopening. An Upazila-level working group involving education authorities, education-related NGOs and civil society can assess the situation and consider appropriate plans and steps for applying the health guideline in their Upazila schools, both government and non-government. It is unlikely that the health guideline will be followed properly without financial support for schools to meet the extra costs.
Awareness campaigns, as well as communication with teachers and parents, are critical for successful reopening by observing health norms. The NGOs and community organisations should be involved, under the overall guidance of the Upazila working group. The goal is not just reopening, but also operating the schools safely and helping the children recover their loss of learning. All this requires a joint effort by all concerned.
