Punjab Schools Closed or Not? Punjab Education Minister hints at Final Decision

Punjab School Closed Update: With COVID-19 situation still quite worrisome in the state, the Punjab State Government is expected to announce extension in the period of School Closures. According to the orders issued on 4^th January, all schools in Punjab were ordered to shut down for physical classes or offline learning with immediate effect until 15^th January 2022. Now, with this deadline ending today, the state government is expected to issue new order with extension in this date. However, State Education Minister Dr. Murad Raas has issued a statement which hints if Punjab schools will remain closed in future or not.

Punjab Edu Minister on School Closure Update https://t.co/bpc7bvFXew

— Education Reporter (@EducationRepor2) January 15, 2022

Students, Parents Demand Update on School Closing

With COVID-19 cases continuing to rise in the state and across the country, several parents and students have sought clarity from the state government on the matter of school closures. Many parents groups and students have taken to social media to highlight this concern, especially in the light of the rapidly rising COVID-19 infections in Punjab. No clear order or statement from the state government has led to rumours and speculations about Punjab School Closures, with different groups saying extension is unlikely, while many other parents hinting towards a possible closure of schools for next 15 days.

Education Minister’s Statement on Twitter

Amid rising speculation and rumours, some students and parents have also reached out to Punjab State Education Minister Dr. Murad Raas for clarity on the matter. Following receiving queries from parents and students, Dr Rass has issued a statement on microblogging website twitter which hints towards possible future action that Punjab Govt may plan around School Closure. Dr Rass’s statement reads “"For all the inquirers whether Schools are closing or NOT? In my opinion, every other activity specially Social activity has to be stopped before schools. Schools should be the absolute last in line to close. The learning losses of our children in the past 2 years - Unimaginable."

While, this statement doesn’t directly answer the question if schools in Punjab will remain closed from Monday or not; as this might just be personal opinion of Educaiton Minister. The final decision regarding School Closed in Punjab will be taken by State Cabinet under the chairmanship of Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi. Students and parents should expect an update about Punjab School Closures today or latest by tomorrow.

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