Students head back to school in Sindh

Attendance remained at 50% for primary grades on first day of on-campus classes

KARACHI: All schools and educational institutions in Sindh resumed on-campus activities on Monday, however, the attendance of nursery to Grade VIII students remained at 50 per cent on the first day.

Coronavirus-mandated standard operating procedures were in place as students returned back to school. In several schools students were permitted entrance on campuses only after their body temperatures were checked and disinfectant was sprayed on their uniforms. The use of facemasks and hand sanitizers was also ensured while social distancing measures were strictly enforced.

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Teachers and other staff members were vigilant with regards to implementation of Covid-SOPs as well.

Educational activities resumed on Monday for primary grades up till Grade VIII after closures were prompted by the second wave late last year. Physical classes had already resumed for the higher grades earlier on January 18, 2021.

Students who attended schools as classes resumed were enthusiastic on being back on campus and maintained that they liked it better to study in schools as compared to online. They missed their teachers and class fellows as studying at home was boring, stated most of the students. Besides, they added, they would be better able to prepare for examinations now that physical classes have resumed.

Meanwhile, the school administrations said that the students have suffered a great loss in their studies due to the closure of schools but the decision of the government to reopen the schools will have a positive impact.

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While SOPs are being followed, only affected schools and colleges should be sealed for a short time instead of closing all educational institutes if cases emerge again, maintained administrations of several schools.

Similarly, the Sindh All Private Schools Management Association chairperson said that physical presence of students on campus is essential for effective learning and resuming the institutions is a good decision.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 2nd, 2021.