Finance
In view of the rising daytime temperature, the state government has asked all schools in the state to reschedule their class times from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. beginning today and lasting until the start of summer vacation.
Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, has written to all District Collectors, asking them to adopt the new timings in all government, government-aided, and privately managed schools run by the department.
The official letter states: “Government after careful consideration have been pleased to reschedule the timing of Classes in all Educational institutions… from 06:30 AM to 10:30 AM with effect from 2 April to commencement of summer vacation. This will remain in force every year.”
It also indicates that all previous guidelines have been amended accordingly. Following the summer holiday, schools will resume normal operating hours as previously instructed. However, District Collectors and Magistrates have been given the authority to reschedule schedules in advance if the local heat wave requires it.
Key precautionary measures Mandated by the Department: To adequately deal with the yearly heat wave issues, the agency has issued the following guidelines to all schools:
Drinking Water Availability: Ensure a consistent supply of drinking water. Repair tube wells on school campuses as needed.
Daily Water Break: Introduce a fixed “water bell” time every day for students and staff to stay hydrated.
ORS Stock: Keep sufficient Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets in schools and provide them immediately to anyone showing signs of heat-related distress.
Restriction on Outdoor Activities: Strictly limit outdoor sports, assemblies, or other activities to prevent exposure to peak heat.
Parent Awareness: Sensitize parents to send their children with a full water bottle daily. This should be widely publicized through schools.
Student Education: Allocate time during school hours to educate students on heatwave precautionary tips and safety measures.
The action comes as temperatures rise across Odisha, and is consistent with the department’s regular practice of protecting students’ health and well-being during the summer months.
District administrations have been asked to enforce strict compliance and take all required local actions.
