Following a seven-day closure prompted by a widespread heatwave across the nation, schools and colleges reopened today (April 28).

However, pre-primary classes will remain suspended for the time being.

In a directive issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education outlined the reopening plan for primary schools, adjusting class schedules to mitigate health risks for students. 

Classes will now be conducted in a single shift from 8am to 11:30am, with the first shift running from 8am to 9:30am and the second from 10:30am to 11:30am.

Earlier on Thursday, the Department of Secondary and Higher Education announced in a notification that class activities would resume from Sunday across educational institutions under the Ministry of Education.

Considering the severity of the heatwave, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has instructed the suspension of assemblies in primary schools until temperatures become more tolerable. This directive extends to secondary schools and colleges as well. 

Furthermore, precautions are advised to limit outdoor class activities in schools and colleges to minimise sun exposure.

To address learning deficits caused by the closures and to align with the new curriculum, secondary schools and colleges will continue class activities on Saturdays until further notice, as stated by the Ministry of Education.

It is reiterated that primary schools will observe their customary closure on Fridays and Saturdays.

Originally scheduled to reopen on 21 April after Eid-ul-Fitr and Bangla New Year holidays, schools and colleges were compelled to extend closures due to the persistent heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius in certain districts.

The recent peak temperature recorded was 42.7 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga, marking the highest of the summer season. Rajshahi and Pabna’s Ishwardi also experienced temperatures surpassing 42 degrees Celsius, while Dhaka reached a maximum of 38.2 degrees Celsius.

BDST: 1050 HRS, APR 28, 2024
MN/SMS