Bhubaneswar: The School and Mass Education Department has instructed school authorities to stay alert for the upcoming heatwave. All schools in the state must ensure additional facilities, including uninterrupted drinking water supply. Schools have been advised to maintain functional tube wells and ensure adequate potable water availability on campus.
Parents are encouraged to send their children with water bottles, and schools must educate students on summer precautions. A circular regarding this was sent today to all District Education Officers (DEOs) by the department.
No Official Decision on Morning Classes Yet
All schools must repair existing water supply systems and stock sufficient ORS packets for emergency use. Safety measures will be prioritized for both students and teachers. Additionally, outdoor activities will be restricted during summer to prevent heat-related illnesses.
On February 17, the Higher Education Department had already issued a letter to colleges, advising them to stay alert during the heatwave. The letter mentioned that morning classes might be conducted, but the final decision was left to individual college authorities. A separate guideline was also issued.
However, today’s circular from the School and Mass Education Department does not mention any decision regarding morning classes in schools.