Schools, colleges to reopen gradually after Rath Yatra in Gujarat

GANDHINAGAR: With daily Covid-19 cases in the state going below 100, the state government is planning to open colleges and schools after the Rath Yatra on July 12. A final decision in this regard is likely to be held by the state government in a short time.
Bhupendrasinh Chudasama, state education minister said, “With the pandemic situation largely under control, the state government is planning to allow reopening of colleges and schools in a phased manner and by strictly following Covid control guidelines. A formal decision will be taken after consultation with experts by the state's core committee and the cabinet.”
“We aim to open schools, once college exams get over after July 12,” he said.
Gujarat Rajya Self-Financed School Management Association president Bharat Gajipara said that the state government has so far not consulted them regarding reopening of schools. He said they will give their opinion to the government if asked for.
Narayan Patel, president of Akhil Gujarat Rajya Shala Sanchalak Mahamandal said that Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board will conduct Class 10 and Class 12 board exams for repeaters from July 15. About 4.5 lakh repeater students are expected to take the test.
A number of schools will be engaged for conducting the board exams, he further said. The colleges and schools are likely to be reopened in a staggered manner.
Jayvantinsh Sarwaiya, president of Gujarat State College Principal’s Association said they have twice approached the government recently to raise their demand. “We would also like to discuss the issue of reopening of colleges. We are hopeful that the government will soon look into our various demands,” Sarwaiya said.