Final Decision On Reopening Classes IX & XI After Feb 1st Week: Odisha Minister

Bhubaneswar: Shortly after the state government authorised the School and Mass Education department to decide on the date of reopening of schools and hostels for Classes IX and XI on Saturday, the minister concerned said the final decision in this regard would be taken after first week of February.

Speaking to media persons, School and Mass Education Minister Samir Dash said the department is holding talks with all the stakeholders on resumption of Classes IX and XI. It will take the final decision after discussion with chief minister Naveen Patnaik, he added.

The minister ruled out reopening of primary classes now and said their focus now is on Classes IX and XI after Classes X and XII were reopened on January 8.

Earlier on the day, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) had issued a notification on fresh COVID-19 guidelines for February. It had authorised different departments to take decision on reopening educational institutions under their jurisdiction.

Also Read: Odisha COVID-19 Guidelines: Education Dept To Take Call On Reopening Of Schools