PATNA: Change seems to be the only constant during the Covid-19 pandemic and the same has happened with school and college students. Burdened with mandatory health precautions, students are struggling to adjust to the new normal.
The restrictions imposed on students have taken the fun out of the school campuses. Students need to be on their toes right from the time they enter the school.
“School is different from how it used to be in pre-pandemic days. There are many restrictions these days. I cannot enjoy with friends in a carefree manner anymore,” said Mrinal Singh, a student of DAV Public School.
Dr M P Singh, a paediatrician, said stress in any capacity can affect children psychologically. “The past year had been difficult for everyone, especially the children as their coping mechanism is not like adults. Children’s proper interactions with peers and teachers are necessary,” he said.
“I miss sharing lunch with my friends and going to canteen during the lunch break. The constant feel of the mask is irritating. When I take it off after returning home, I can see marks on my face,” said Shashwat Shwetank, a student of Delhi Public School.
The shift in mode of education was also an adjustment which the students had to get accustomed to this academic session. Aarti Mishra, a Hindi teacher, said, “The students had to shift from offline to online mode of education. This was something new for teachers as well. The task was really challenging.”
Mohit Mayank, a Class XI student of Loyola High School, said school without sports activities is monotonous. “The social distancing norms prevent us from playing games which require physical contact, such as cricket, football and basketball. Track games are also not possible because wearing mask while running is very difficult,” he said.
Aarin, a student of Don Bosco Academy, said, “I was happy when the offline classes resumed. However, since two batches of students come to the class on alternate days, I miss my close friends.”
Teachers are trying their best to help students adapt to the new normal. Sunita Gupta, a government high school teacher, said, “I am happy that schools have reopened as most government school students do not have laptops to attend online studies. But students are still adjusting. Earlier, midday meals were being provided to the students. However, the students have been told to bring their own food now due to the pandemic.”
Parents too are apprehensive regarding their ward’s education and health. “I understand that it was necessary to reopen the schools to break the psychological barrier of children, but as a parent I want my child to study in a conducive atmosphere,” said Anjali Chauhan, mother of a Class XI student.