Govt to come up with protocols for re-opening of educational institutions: CM

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 22, 2020

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the government is in the process of coming up with guidelines and protocols for re-opening of educational institutions in the state post lockdown period.

“The government is in the process of bringing out the guidelines/protocols for re-opening of educational institutions in the State post lockdown period for the well-being of the students and teachers,” Sangma said while replying to a motion in the Assembly, which concluded here on Friday.

He said the lockdown and the consequent shutdown of schools and other educational institutions in the State have caused massive disruption in the education system.

According to him, for most urban areas where internet, radio and television were accessible, schools, teachers and the Department of Education (DOE) could reach out to learners through online classrooms, WhatsApp groups, the Doordarshan Kendra’s and All India Radio broadcasts.

He said after extensive deliberation and discussion with stakeholders it was recommended that schools may reopen depending on the lockdown decision of the Government of India and the State Government.

“Subsequent to the consultative meeting with stakeholders and the Education Department, it was decided that a policy document needs to be put in place to prepare educational institutions to move forward with the knowledge and wisdom on prevention from the spread of the virus in the institutions,” the CM said.

“In this regard, experts comprising of Vice Chancellor and officers of NEHU along with the officers of the three Directorates of the State Government including officials from MBOSE are preparing a policy document on safety and prevention measures which are to be taken on re-opening of educational institutions,” he further informed.

The CM said the government is also in the process of preparation of the academic calendar for the remaining part of the academic session 2020 for all students from Class I – XII.

He said coding and mapping of the learning outcomes to address learning losses during the period of lockdown due to Covid-19 pandemic is in the process. The main objective is to help teachers create the learning experience/ atmosphere either at schools or at home so that the children achieve the expected and desired learning outcomes, he added.