Timings for Class IX to XII in Odisha Schools rescheduled: Details here

Bhubaneswar: As preventive measures and preparedness to tackle the heatwave during Summer-2021, the Odisha government has directed all schools to conduct morning classes from March 1.

These guidelines will be in addition to the instructions already issued for COVID-19. In a letter, the School and Mass Education Department has directed all schools including public schools and privately managed schools to reschedule the timing of all classes.

The Class IX and XI which is presently running from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM are rescheduled to 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Similarly, Class X and XII which are running from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM is rescheduled to 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

The district education officers have also been advised to ensure availability of safe pure drinking water in all schools including repair of tube well if any.

DEOs are also advised to store sufficient ORS in school point which can be provided to students and staff in case of need. School transport facility where available will be allowed to operate for students and staff to avoid exposure to heat.

All parents should be sensitized to ensure that their children carry water bottles while going to schools.

The headmasters of schools have to allocate some time during the school hour to teach/sensitize students on precautionary measures on the heatwave. The students must not be exposed to heat during the teaching hour and no physical activity like sports should be undertaken.

The rescheduling of classes will come into effect from March 1, 2021, says the letter.