Pratibha Chauhan

Tribune press service

Shimla, October 30

Even as regular classes for students in Grades IX-XII will begin from November 2, the Department for Education today issued guidance regarding the continuation of online classes and non-mandatory attendance.

Joint Education Secretary Ved Prakash has issued orders to the Directors of Higher and Primary Education and the State Project Director regarding the reopening of educational institutions in the state.

The ordinances state that there must be strict adherence to social distancing standards. “If the number of students exceeds the capacity of the classrooms after following physical distance, the principal may authorize attendance on alternate days or shifts as appropriate,” the orders say. The written authorization of the parents to follow courses at school or college remains obligatory. It states that attendance should not be taxed.

Tuition Ordinance Withdrawn

The Ministry of Education has withdrawn its previous orders directing private institutions to charge only tuition fees during the pandemic when only online courses were offered.

“The case was brought before the competent authority and it was approved that with a view to the gradual lifting of the confinement, the instructions issued by the Director of Higher Education on May 27, 2020 be withdrawn with immediate effect”, indicate the orders.

It has been reliably learned that the previous order was withdrawn after discussion in Cabinet meeting. High Court orders regarding the imposition of fees by a boarding school were discussed and it was felt that the earlier order should now be withdrawn.