Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (MS)

Bengaluru, Nov 22: The state government is in a quandary whether to start the schools or not as there is a possibility of second wave of coronavirus striking in the near future, according to media reports.

Most of the people are of the opinion that high school and pre-univeristy colleges can be started with precautionary measures. The education department has submitted the report on the basis of these opinions to the government.

Chief minister Yediyurappa will take a final decision in this regard on Monday, November 23, in a meeting scheduled to be held with education minister, health minister and officials of both the departments.

Even as the first wave of coronavirus has decreased, the threat of a second wave has hit the country. The governments of Haryana and Maharashtra have clarified that they are not going to open schools till the end of November and December respectively. Karnataka government is yet to take a decision on this matter. However, the state government has chalked out a SOP as per the opinions given by experts from health department and Covid work force.

Offline classes for degree, post-graduation, diploma, engineering colleges and universities have already begun from November 17. However, though the classes have started with all precautions, only 15% of the students are attending the classes.

Giving clarification on the matter, education minister Suresh Kumar said, "No decision is taken yet with regards to restarting of schools. We will discuss this matter with the CM on Monday. Discussion will also be held on second wave of coronavirus pandemic and the situation in other states. We will take suggestions from the health department also."