Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru Jun 5: MLC Ivan D’Souza urged the government to come up with concrete policy and avoid creating confusion on the issue of reopening of schools.

Addressing the media here on Friday June 5, he said, “Due to relaxation of lockdown, the cases in the country and the state have increased. In a single day, 9,300 cases were reported in the nation and from the 38th position, today we are on the 7th position in the world.

“In spite of a steep increase in the number of cases, the state government has failed to take a firm stand on the reopening of schools and created lot of confusion. Under the current circumstances, what was the urgency to announce about the reopening of schools? Keeping sophisticated private schools in mind, the government has decided to reopen the schools but what about the schools in rural areas and the situation they face?

“The minister had announced the decision to start the schools in three phases which created confusion among school administrations as well as the parents. I urge the government to come up with a firm policy and avoid confusion about the reopening of schools.

“The government has spoken about conducting online classes. Here, we should understand that all the students cannot access internet and attend online classes. The chief minister did not announce any package for education during this Covid pandemic. The government has not allotted any amount for students.

“What is the urgency to start schools? During the rainy season it is common among small children to have cough, fever, cold. In such cases, where they will be sent? If any one student tests positive in the school, will the parents be ready to send their children to that school again? Questioned Ivan D’Souza.

He also urged the government to withdraw the decision for seats recalled under RTE.

Congress leaders Sahul Hameed, Ibrahim Kodijal and others were present.