Covid-19 Resurgence: Odisha Minister Clarifies On Closure Of Schools

Bhubaneswar: The recent surge in Covid-19 cases across Odisha has raised questions over the continuation of classes in schools which resumed two months ago following closure for nearly a year.

The resurgence of the virus situation which has affected several private and autonomous institutions in the Capital city and in other parts of the State has only precipitated the situation even as several districts have resorted to imposing night curfew to contain the spread.

On Thursday, a student at the Kendriya Vidyalaya-1 in Bhubaneswar was the latest to have been tested positive for Covid-19, triggering fear and concern among parents.

Amidst the rising Covid-19 graph, Odisha School and Mass Education Minister, Samir Ranjan Dash on Thursday claimed that not a single case of Covid-19 has been reported from any State government-run school or hostel.

He said clear instructions have been issued to relevant officials to ensure that the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the State government to contain the Covid-19 outbreak are strictly followed in their respective educational institutions.

“District administrations are keeping a close watch on private schools. The officials have been asked to strict follow the SOP issued by the State government,” said Dash.
Dash however, made it clear that “No decision has been taken as yet on the closure of schools in the State.”

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