The rising COVID-19 cases the state has prompted the state government to extend the closure of schools to January 17, 2022. However, this extension is only applicable to two major cities in the state – Jaipur and Jodhpur. Furthermore, this closure has been implemented for students up to Class 8. For these students, online education shall continue like before. This decision does not come as a surprise since several states have already adopted stricter measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Previously, due to the impending third wave and rise in Omicron cases, the state decided on shutting down schools till January 07, 2022. Students in Jaipur and Jodhpur were compelled to go back to attend online classes like before. What was supposed to be a week-long closure has now been extended by 10 days for Class 1-8.
During a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, it was decided that District Collectors will take a call about the opening-up of educational institutes in their respective districts.
Before schools closed down in Rajasthan, the state education board had announced the Class 10 and 12 board exam dates. As per official information, the Class 12 board exams are scheduled from March 04 to April 07, 2022. Similarly, the Class 10 board exams 2021-22 will be held from March 15 to April 18, 2022.
While Class 1-8 students are studying at home, those studying in Class 9, 10, 11, and 12 will be attending schools in 50% capacity.
In addition to extending the closure of schools in Jaipur and Raipur, the state government has also decided on several other curbs. For example, only 50% of staff members are allowed to work in both private and government offices. However, as much as possible, work-from-home is being encouraged industries. Moreover, a night curfew will be imposed from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am. This is another measure to reduce public movement.
In the case of recreational centers, places like stadiums, gyms, cinema halls, clubs, and swimming pools will be shut down until further notice from the government. However, restaurants and cafes will be permitted to function at 50% capacity. In case of wedding proceedings, at most 50 people will be allowed for the ceremony and a maximum of 20 people will be permitted for the farewell of the bride.
As of now, while the country battles against the third-wave of COVID-19, more than 13 states/UTs have shutdown schools for all classes except Class 10 and 12. If the situation worsens, the upcoming central and state board exams will be hampered. Education boards will again, have to look into alternate assessment criteria to evaluate students, similar to last year.
