Back to school: J&K Govt to open schools for classes 10th and 12th for vaccinated students

The government has ordered opening of classes for 10th and 12th for vaccinated students with 50 percent capacity in J&K.

According to a press release issued, the decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary A K Mehta.

During the meeting, it was also decided that rest of the classes shall remain closed for in-person studies.

In an order issued, Mehta, who is also the chairperson of the State Executive Committee (SEC), said classes for students of 12th standard would be permitted with in-person attendance not exceeding 50 per cent of capacity on a given day.

“Consent shall be obtained from the parents of all students who are willing to attend the school. The school premises should be thoroughly sanitised, proper screening regarding vaccination should be done on the school gate.

“If any student or teacher or other school staff shows symptoms of cough, cold, or fever, they will not be allowed to enter the school. The head of the school must ensure that the guidelines related to social distancing and Covid protocols are strictly followed, the order said.

It further said that the schools, except for relaxations for students of 12th and 10th classes, shall continue to remain closed for on-site / in-person teaching.

The order said the coaching centres for civil services or engineering or NEET examinations would be permitted with limited in-person teaching for fully vaccinated staff and students.” All other coaching centres shall continue to remain closed for onsite/in-person teaching, the order said.

The higher educational institutions would be permitted to commence limited in-person teaching subject to 100 per cent vaccination of staff and students and specific permission of the Deputy Commissioners, the order said.

“Such institutions can organise special vaccination camps in consultation with district administration,” the order said.

It further added, “The District Magistrates shall constitute joint teams of Police and Executive Magistrates for intensifying enforcement of Covid Appropriate Behaviour.

“The joint teams shall submit daily reports regarding activities carried out by them and their assessment of compliance level. DCs will intensify the campaigns for ensuring COVID appropriate behaviour. Dedicated IEC, including public announcements through mobile vehicles must be undertaken,” read the order.