Bhubaneswar: Odisha schools are set to reopen on June 20 after the summer break, but the decision for three districts heavily affected by the diarrhoea outbreak will be taken by the respective District Collectors, informed the School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond today.
Gond stated that these collectors will assess the situation and decide whether schools in their areas will reopen as scheduled or remain closed.
“The state government is taking the diarrhoea situation very seriously and has directed officials to keep a close watch on vulnerable districts before schools reopen. If the situation becomes unmanageable, District Collectors have the authority to keep schools closed to ensure student safety”, said Gond.
He further said, “To prioritise student safety, the state has implemented several precautionary measures. Schools lacking water purification systems are required to provide boiled drinking water to students. Additionally, mid-day meal cooks have been instructed to serve hot meals with boiled water. Similar arrangements will be made in residential schools to ensure the health and safety of hostel inmates.”
“Special care will be taken for cleaning and sanitising school premises and water tanks to prevent the spread of diarrhoea. To minimise the risk of foodborne illness, fast food stalls near school campuses will be closed. Most importantly, parents will be informed about the safety protocols through school meetings. Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene on school campuses will be a top priority”, maintained the Minister.
