Unlock 5.0 : Karnataka studying Andhra model for reopening of schools from November 17

With the implementation of Unlock 5.0, many States across the country have decided on reopening their educational institutes from November 17. However Karnataka government seems to be in a dilemma to reopen schools and colleges in the state.

Regarding this matter, the Karnataka government has scheduled a meeting with the concerned authorities on November 4. 

Talking to the reporters, Primary and Secondary Education Minister S Suresh Kumar said, 'We are seriously studying the Andhra Pradesh model for reopening of schools. Prior to taking any decision, we need to examine everything as it is a question of students' lives.'

He further added, 'Prior to reopening, we need to gather information on various fronts besides the health condition of the teachers and students. Experts feel that prolonged closure of schools can have a negative impact on a child's mind as well; therefore, we are examining all these things before arriving at a final decision.' 

Andhra Pradesh has already reopened schools in its state from November 2. Karnataka is also thinking of reopening its educational institutes from November as the Covid-19 cases have shown a sharp dip since a few weeks. 

It is expected that the schools in Karnataka might reopen from next week.

Karnataka corona cases

Karnataka on Tuesday reported 2,756 fresh Covid-19 cases and 26 more deaths, taking the total tally and cumulative fatalities to 8,32,396 and 11,247 respectively.

About 50 per cent of the fresh cases and fatalities were contributed by the Bengaluru Urban district with 1,479 fresh infections and 13 deaths.

Cumulatively, Bengaluru has reported 3,41,554 infections, 3,901 deaths, 3,14,956 discharges, including 4,868 on Tuesday, and 22,696 active cases.

Odisha

Last week, the Odisha government had announced partial reopening of schools for students of classes 9-12 from November 16. However, the notification ordered academic institutions across the state to remain shut till November 30.

Tamil Nadu

The Tamil Nadu government has also granted permission for schools and colleges in the state to reopen from November 16 under strict COVID-19 guidelines.

Goa

The Goa government is still contemplating on the idea of reopening schools in the state. 

Andhra and Assam

Andra Pradesh and Assam have opened schools with strict COVID-19 guidelines, while Haryana, Odisha and Tamil Nadu are mulling reopening educational institutes from November 16.