In a significant move for the capital's education system, schools across Delhi have officially ended the hybrid learning model for senior students and returned to full-time, in-person classroom instruction. The decision, effective immediately, applies to students in Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11.
Decision Triggered by Improved Air Quality
The shift back to normalcy follows the revocation of Stage 4 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) took this step after noting a "significant improvement" in Delhi's air quality, propelled by favourable meteorological conditions. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) moving to the 'poor' category from more severe levels, authorities decided to ease the emergency measures.
R.K. Agarwal, Director (Technical) and Member Convenor of the GRAP Sub-Committee, confirmed that actions under GRAP Stage 4 were revoked with immediate effect. He clarified that measures under GRAP Stages 1, 2, and 3 would continue to remain in force to prevent any backsliding in air quality.
What the New School Order Means
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued a circular directing a complete return to physical classes for the specified grades. The order impacts all schools under its jurisdiction, including:
- Government schools
- Government-aided schools
- Recognised private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board
The circular, issued by Dr. Rita Sharma, Additional Director of Education (School), mandates that all school heads ensure immediate compliance. Schools have been instructed to inform parents and guardians promptly to ensure a smooth transition.
The order clarifies the current mode of learning for all categories:
- Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11: Fully physical classes resume.
- Classes up to 5: Will continue in hybrid mode (mix of online and offline).
- Classes 10 and 12: Will remain fully offline, as was the case before this order.
Ensuring Compliance and Future Vigilance
To ensure the directive is followed uniformly, district and zonal education officers have been tasked with closely monitoring the situation in schools. The DoE has emphasized that the implementation should be seamless and without disruption for thousands of students across the national capital.
The Commission for Air Quality Management has stated it will maintain a vigilant watch on AQI trends. The situation will be reviewed regularly, with particular attention during the winter months when air quality can deteriorate rapidly. Authorities have also urged citizens to continue adhering to the citizen's charter under GRAP Stages 1 to 3 to help sustain the improved air quality while schools operate normally.
