GANDHINAGAR: After the significant fall in the average per day Covid 19 cases in state, the state government has begun internal consultations to deliberate over re-opening of colleges, universities and secondary schools.
Key sources in the state government close to the development said, “Government has started internal consultation to discuss the pros and cons of reopening colleges, universities and schools as the number of daily Covid cases has come down considerably.
However, considering the possibility of the likely third Covid wave, the government is taking very conservative view.” Most of the senior officials and experts have suggested to reopen colleges, universities and higher secondary schools.
The government will shortly start dialogue with various stake holders also.
“It is of the opinion to allow reopening of 9th to 12th standards and keep 1st to 8th standards closed, at least till Diwali,” said a senior official.
“The decision on opening colleges, universities and schools will be taken by the CM-led high level core group, and the state cabinet will take the final call,” sources added.
Jatin Bharad, vice-president of Self-financed School Associations, said, “Last year, when the government reopened schools, there were around 600 cases per day.
Now it’s below 250 cases.
If in that wave the government can reopen schools, why can’t it reopen schools now.” Bharat Gajipara, president, Gujarat State School Management Association, said, “Government has not initiated any formal talks with us, however we have learnt that the government is considering to reopen colleges and schools.
We are ready to open schools as per the government guidelines.’’