The West Bengal school education department has extended the summer vacation for all government and government-aided schools until May 31, making it a total of 21 days off. Initially, the vacation was scheduled for only eight days, with schools closing on May 11 and set to reopen on Monday. However, an official order issued on Wednesday now mandates that all such institutions will reopen on June 1.
Reason for Extension
Officials stated that the decision was prompted by a surge in temperatures across several districts in the state. The extension aims to ensure the safety and well-being of students amid extreme weather conditions. The order is binding on all government and government-supported institutions, but private schools may follow their own schedules.
Concerns Raised by Teachers' Organizations
While the notice did not explicitly mention the reason for the extension, several teachers' organizations have expressed concern about how the syllabus will be covered. Swapan Mandal, secretary of the Bengal Teachers' and Employees' Association, criticized the move, stating, "There is no proper reason behind this extension. The weather conditions are not bad enough to extend the summer holiday. This applies only to state schools while the holidays for madrasas have not been extended."
The extension has sparked debate among educators and parents, with some welcoming the precautionary measure while others worry about academic disruptions. The education department has not yet announced any revised academic calendar or compensatory measures for the lost instructional days.
