When to reopen schools? MHRD seeks feedback from parents

The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) has written to all the states for the feedback of parents on the reopening of schools in the next few months, and the changes they think must be introduced in the institutions, reported ThePrint on Sunday (July 19).

In its letter to the education secretaries of all states on Friday, the report said, the MHRD directed them to seek the feedback of the parents. It asked them to ascertain whether the parents will be comfortable if the schools are reopened in August, September or October.

“What is the likely period when they will be comfortable with reopening of schools — August/September/October, 2020 and what are the parents expectations from schools as and when they re-open,” it quoted the letter as saying.

The states were asked to filed their responses by July 20. Schools, colleges and educational institutions like coaching classes remain shut since March due to the coronavirus pandemic, and no decision on the reopening of the institutions have been taken so far.

Only after due clearances from the ministry of home affairs and the health ministry, the MHRD will be taking a decision in this regard, however, the process can be initiated once it gets feedback from the parents, the report said.

The ministry is also preparing guidelines to be followed in schools after they reopen.

Related news: COVID-19: Over 2 lakh parents petition govt against reopening schools