With zero COVID case, Sikkim to reopen schools, educational institutions from June 15

As state has t reported any Coronavirus case till w, Sikkim government has decided to reopen schools and or educational institutes on June 15. Anuncing same, Education Minister Kunga Nima Lepcha said decision was taken by taking into account importance of higher classes and board exams. He said that state government has decided to open both government and private schools for classes 9 to 12.

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However, minister assured that schools and educational institutions have been directed to strictly comply with Central government's guidelines regarding COVID-19. Adhering to social distancing rms,  state has also decided to suspend daily assembly of schools for this academic session. He also said that nursery to class 8 will remain suspended until furr order as a precaution amid rising Covid-19 cases all across country.  

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In line with Central government's focus on online education, state education minister said that it will continue as usual in Sikkim. "Education is of paramount importance and it should t be hampered at any cost and for that purpose his department is trying to reach out to students within and outside state. Classes will be held in two shifts by duly adhering to social distancing and or guidelines. annual examinations will be postponed to February 2021 so that focus is more on studies. Schools will remain open on all Saturdays as well," he said. 

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Additional Chief Secretary, Education, GP Upadhayaya said that district administrations will be asked to hand over schools that have been converted into quarantine centres after duly disinfecting and sanitising m before June 10. Director, Primary Education, Bhim Thatal elaborated that students who live in areas falling in West Bengal near inter-state borders and are studying in Sikkim will be advised to make an arrangement to stay in Sikkim after completing quarantine period as prescribed by health department so that y could attend classes when it starts.

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Covid case in Sikkim

Even as number of Coronavirus cases in India has reached 1,18,447, with states like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu reporting maximum cases, small state - Sikkim at foothills of Himalayas has mand to keep virus at bay. state administration's quick response and planned strategy have played a crucial role. As country reported first COVID case in Kerala, state government has chalked out a plan. It had declared a strict lockdown even before nationwide lockdown anunced by Modi government on March 24. It had sealed four out of six borders and has declared a ban on any tourists entering state till September. Sources said that with migrants returning to state, government has opened up quarantine facilities in coordination with private hotels and homestays.