As Kolkata schools reopened on Monday following a month-and-a-half summer break, students faced the formidable challenge of adjusting to the prevailing heat and humidity. The sweltering conditions posed significant difficulties for children, many of whom had grown accustomed to the comfort of their homes during the vacation. The reopening has raised concerns among educators and parents about the health and well-being of the students.
State-affiliated schools resumed classes on Monday, marking the end of the summer holiday. The transition back to school life proved strenuous for many students, particularly those at Scottish Church Collegiate School, where several children fell ill due to the intense heat and had to be sent home. This incident highlighted the severity of the heatwave and its impact on young students.
A school principal acknowledged the difficulties faced by the students, especially those in junior classes. “We have instructed teachers to closely monitor the children as it’s challenging for them to cope with the extreme heat after such a long break. However, there is no alternative to physical classes,” the principal stated.
Private schools in Kolkata, including Heritage School, Calcutta Boys, DPS Ruby Park, Techno India Group of School, Garia, and Ruby Park Public School, have also taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of their students. These schools have temporarily suspended all outdoor activities, encouraging students to remain indoors and engage in indoor games and activities instead. This decision aims to protect the children from the adverse effects of the heatwave.
Another principal emphasized the importance of hydration and cooling measures. “We have instructed children not to leave their classrooms and to focus on indoor activities. Starting Tuesday, we will provide nimboo pani (lemon water) thrice a day to keep the students hydrated,” the principal explained. “We always take good care of all our children. We have suspended all outdoor activities and frequently remind them to drink plenty of water.”
The current heatwave in Kolkata underscores the need for schools to adapt their routines and facilities to ensure the well-being of their students. With temperatures soaring, the educational institutions are implementing various strategies to mitigate the impact of the heat. These measures include enhanced hydration protocols, suspension of outdoor activities, and increased vigilance in monitoring students’ health.
As the city grapples with this extreme weather, the efforts of schools to safeguard their students serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of proactive health and safety measures in educational environments. The ongoing heatwave in Kolkata is a stark reminder of the broader challenges posed by climate change, necessitating a concerted effort from all sectors to adapt and respond effectively.
