New Delhi: Phase 4 of Unlock has now kicked in and while that means a lot of better and eased out options available for people, it does not mean the same for educational institutions. Given the relaxations are kicking in at a time when the increasing number of cases in the country are at an all-time high, the viable option regarding the reopening of schools and colleges seemed to be one that is delayed.
As per the guidelines that have been issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, schools and colleges are going to be shut until September 30. While that has been decided, there have been relaxations across the country in terms of movement and other activities. It also states that though they will remain closed, academic functions can take place in the presence of not more than 100 people congregating at a time.
While the decision has been taken, the document stating the guidelines also clearly states how the decision was a result of extensive consultation with both states, as well as UTs.
While the institutions cannot carry out regular activity until September 30, they are allowed to have restricted movement outside containment zones after September 21. The guidelines further suggest that the institutions are allowed to operate at 50% capacity as far as teaching and non-teaching staff is concerned in order to conduct the online classes.
Students in classes 9-12 can visit schools on a voluntary basis and under guidance, however, it will require the consent of the parents/guardians. Meanwhile, as far as higher educational institutions are concerned, PhD research scholars as well as PG students in technical as well as professional courses having laboratory requirements or working on institutions may be allowed to enter the premises.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs has also allowed skill and entrepreneurship training at Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes including training at the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE).
