The intense heatwave across Gujarat has sparked concern over the reopening of schools after the summer vacation. With schools scheduled to reopen on June 8, several school management bodies have appealed to the state government to extend the vacation by another 10 days.
The demand has been raised by the State School Management Association, which has submitted a representation to the Chief Minister. According to the association, temperatures in many parts of Gujarat are still ranging between 40°C and 44°C, making weather conditions uncomfortable and potentially unsafe for children returning to classrooms.
The association said that both rural and urban areas are experiencing extreme heat, which could affect students’ health and lead to lower attendance in schools. Concerns have been raised especially for younger children who may struggle to cope with the harsh weather conditions.
Apart from the heatwave, school bodies have also pointed to transportation and fuel-related concerns. They claimed that ongoing international conflicts and disruptions in fuel supply have created problems for farmers who need diesel during the important monsoon sowing season. At the same time, autorickshaw and school van operators are reportedly facing shortages of petrol and diesel, raising fears of transportation difficulties for students.
To manage the situation, the association has suggested temporary changes in the academic schedule. It proposed that kindergarten to Class 5 students attend school only five days a week, while students from Classes 6 to 8 attend classes three days a week. For students in Classes 9 to 12, the association recommended online learning until weather and transport conditions improve.
The memorandum submitted to the government stated that these suggestions were prepared after discussions with district-level organisations across Gujarat. The association has urged the government to prioritise student safety and convenience by extending the summer vacation and adopting flexible learning arrangements if necessary.
Also Read: Fewer Grams, Same Crisis: Gujarat Cuts School Snacks but Not Malnutrition Numbers https://www.vibesofindia.com/fewer-grams-same-crisis-gujarat-cuts-school-snacks-but-not-malnutrition-numbers/
