Schools told to hold dengue awareness programme

The state education department, through a circular, has directed the schools and junior colleges in the city to create awareness about deadly diseases such as dengue among students. The schools and colleges have been asked to organise the awareness programme for students of Std V-XII from August 1-15.

The awareness programme will have events such as drawing and rangoli competitions. Institutions will have to invite experts to give information on dengue to students. In addition, they will have to hold a students' march in the locality to create awareness among local people.

Rajesh Pandya, a teacher from a western suburb school, however, said, "It is a good initiative but the western zone schools have not received any such circular. Also, a rally won't be possible during the rainy season. We can, however, distribute pamphlets among people."

Uday Nare, another teacher from Andheri, said, "BMC sends posters and banners on dengue to schools, which are then displayed. We have not received the circular yet. Mostly NSS, NCC and scout guide students participate in such awareness programmes."