Gujarat Schools Seek 10-Day Extension of Summer Vacation Due to Heatwave

Ahmedabad: With schools across Gujarat scheduled to reopen after the summer vacation on June 8, the ongoing spell of heatwave has sparked fresh concerns among school management bodies. The State School Management Association has urged the state government to extend the vacation by another 10 days, citing health risks to students and logistical challenges arising from fuel-related issues.

Heatwave Conditions Persist

In a representation submitted to the chief minister, the association stated that temperatures across several parts of Gujarat continue to hover between 40 and 44 degrees Celsius, creating uncomfortable and potentially unsafe conditions for children returning to classrooms. The association said that both rural and urban regions are witnessing intense heat, which could adversely affect students' health and attendance.

Fuel Shortage Impacts Transportation

Apart from the heatwave conditions, the association also flagged concerns related to fuel availability and transportation. It claimed that ongoing international conflicts and related disruptions in fuel supply have created difficulties for farmers in procuring diesel during the crucial monsoon sowing season. At the same time, school transport operators, including autorickshaw and van drivers, are reportedly facing shortages of petrol and diesel, raising fears of disruptions in student transportation services.

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Proposed Academic Adjustments

To address the situation, the association has suggested temporary changes to the academic schedule. It proposed that schools for kindergarten to Class 5 function only five days a week, while students from Classes 6 to 8 attend school three days a week. For Classes 9 to 12, the association recommended online classes until conditions improve.

Consultations and Appeal

The memorandum stated that the suggestions were prepared after consultations with district-level organisations across Gujarat. The association has appealed to the government to prioritise student safety and convenience by extending the summer vacation and considering flexible academic arrangements in the interim.