Bhubaneswar, June 18: Summer vacation has officially ended for students in 20 districts of Odisha, with schools reopening from today. Students returned to classrooms with new books, fresh academic goals and renewed enthusiasm. However, schools in the remaining 10 districts will stay closed till June 22 after district collectors extended the vacation in view of prevailing heatwave conditions.
Despite the onset of the monsoon, large parts of the state continue to reel under intense heat and humidity. Citing adverse weather conditions, district administrations in 10 districts have decided to prolong the summer break. The move has, however, triggered a debate over the differing school reopening schedules across the state.
Educationists and parents have questioned the rationale behind reopening schools in 20 districts when several areas, including Khordha and Cuttack, continue to experience scorching temperatures, sultry weather and inadequate rainfall. Concerns have been raised over the impact of the prevailing weather on school-going children.
With temperatures remaining high and humidity levels soaring, questions are being asked about how students will commute to schools and attend classes comfortably. There are also concerns over whether children will be able to concentrate on their studies in classrooms amid the oppressive heat.
The decision has sparked discussions on the need for a uniform policy on school reopening, keeping student health and safety at the forefront.
