Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), June 17: Amid the prevailing heatwave and slow progress of the southwest monsoon, the Odisha government is considering extending the ongoing summer vacation until weather conditions become more favorable for school activities. Schools in the state are scheduled to reopen on June 18.
School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond earlier informed the media that the government might extend the summer vacation if the weather does not improve. He emphasized that the health and safety of children are the government’s top priorities, and the decision to reopen schools will be reviewed accordingly.
Gond also mentioned that district administrations may decide on extending the summer break based on the weather conditions in their respective areas. Sources indicate that the department is likely to hold a meeting later today to discuss this issue.
The Odisha State Secondary Teachers’ Association (OSSTA) has also requested the minister to extend the summer holidays by 3-4 days. They cited concerns over some schools having asbestos roofs and lacking proper water and electricity supply. “Most districts are recording temperatures between 38-40 degrees Celsius. To protect students from heat-related illnesses, we have requested the minister to extend the summer break by a few days,” said OSSTA General Secretary Ranjan Kumar Dash.
