Assam government revokes school closure order amid improved weather; classes resume from tomorrow

NEW DELHI: District Elementary Education Officer (DEEO) announced the immediate revocation of the earlier order issued on September 23, 2024, regarding the closure of all government, provincialized, and private schools in Kamrup (M). The schools are set to resume normal classes starting September 25, 2024, following improvements in weather conditions in the region.

The official order read, “All Govt, Provincialized, Private schools in Kamrup metro are to continue with normal classes from tomorrow, ie from 25 September 2024.”

School closures due to heat and health concerns

The initial decision to close the schools was effective from September 24 to September 27, 2024, due to rising temperatures and extreme heat. Reports from school authorities highlighted numerous incidents of health issues among students, including fainting and dehydration, prompted the DEEO to prioritize student safety.

Assam CM announces resumption of classes amid improved weather

The Assam chief minister shared the update on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Effective immediately, the order dated 23-09-2024 (No. SSA/KAM(M)/TT/ Dispatch/2013/40/1662) is revoked, and all Government, Provincialized, and Private schools in Kamrup (M) will resume normal classes starting 25th September 2024, following improved weather conditions. However, the order dated 20-09-2024 (No. SSA/KAM(M)/TT/Dispatch/ 2013/40/1657) regarding school timings from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM will remain in effect."

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School timings

Despite the reopening of schools, the order regarding adjusted school timings, which mandates classes to operate from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm, remains in effect. This adjustment was aimed at minimizing exposure to the intense midday heat, ensuring a safer environment for students.

The previous official notice issued by the DEEO emphasized the necessity of the closure to protect students from adverse effects linked to high temperatures. "It has been decided that all Govt/ Provincialized/ Private schools functioning under Kamrup Metro district are to remain close from 24th to 27th September 2024 due to excessive heat and rising temperature in the district.", stated the earlier order, highlighting the focus on student’s health and well-being.