Maharashtra School Reopening News: Situation in State Not Feasible to Reopen Schools, says Education Minister

Maharashtra School Reopening News: As per the latest update, Maharashtra State Higher and Technical Education Minister Uday Samant has issued a statement saying that the current prevailing situation in the state is not conducive for reopening of schools for holding of in-person, face to face classes for the students. The statement comes in response to the central government’s guidelines that allowed reopening of schools and educational institutions from 15th October 2020 in a graded manner.

COVID-19 situation in Maharashtra Not Normal

Education Minister held a brief meeting review meeting with officials of the Savitribai Phule Pune University on Tuesday to assess the prevailing situation. After the meeting he briefed reporters in which he said COVID-19 situation in Maharashtra is not normal. He also added that "Therefore, it is not appropriate to conduct physical classes. We have also directed educational institutions to avoid collection of development fees from students as there have been no physical classes.”

Educational Institutions Closed in State

According to the revised guidelines issued for lockdown and COVID-19 prevention on 30^th Sept 2020, the Maharashtra State Government has not allowed reopening of said schools, colleges, and other educational and coaching institutions in the state. The decision has been taken keeping in mind the still higher number of cases that are being reported from different parts of the state. However, as part of the unlock process, the state government has permitted some commercial activities to bring back state’s economy on track. However, the state government has also issued detailed guidelines and COVID-19 prevention protocols for operation of these activities as well. But keeping the safety, health and well-being of the students in mind, the state government has decided not to open educational institutions in the state.