Schools, colleges to reopen for Class IX and above from January 27 with strict SOPs: Education Minister

IMPHAL, Jan 16 (DIPR)
Schools and colleges will reopen for Classes IX and above from January 27. This was decided by the Cabinet meeting at Kamjong yesterday, said Education Minister S Rajen Singh.
Speaking to media persons at the conference hall of the Minister at Old Secretariat, South Block, Imphal today, he  said that with the view to supplement the deficit classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Education Department has decided to resume classes with strict SOPs. This decision was taken in view of Class X and XII examinations of the Board of Secondary Education Manipur and Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur.
Rajen explained that the willing students will be tested for COVID-19 prior to their attendance. Only COVID-19 negative students will be allowed to attend classes. Also, they have to produce consent certificate from their guardians/parents. Classes may be conducted in shifts depending on the prevailing circumstances of the respective schools and colleges. Regular visits and inspections will also be conducted, he said.
The Minister also said that proper instructions have also been given to officials concerned of the Departments. Required medical kits like hand sanitiser, face masks, soaps and detergents etc will also be provided at the schools and colleges.
He appealed the teachers, guardians, students and civil organisations to extend cooperation and facilitate the Government in opening the educational institutions.
Commissioner Higher and Technical Education, M Harekrishna, Commissioner Education (S) T Ranjit Singh, Director, Education (S) L Nandakumar Singh were present.