In response to the severe cold wave conditions persisting across Uttar Pradesh, the state's education department has issued urgent directives to ensure the safety and well-being of school children. With government schools currently closed until January 14, officials are taking proactive steps for when classrooms reopen.
Directives from the Top to Combat the Chill
Additional Chief Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education, Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, has instructed all Block Education Officers (BEOs) across the state's 75 districts to act immediately. The BEOs have been asked to convene meetings with head teachers of primary and upper primary schools without delay.
The core instruction is for these head teachers to actively encourage parents to send their children to school wearing the complete winter uniform once the winter break ends. This uniform specifically includes sweaters, socks, and shoes to provide adequate protection from the biting cold.
Utilizing Government Financial Assistance
A key part of the directive focuses on the financial aid already provided by the government. Sharma emphasized that parents of students in primary and junior high schools receive monetary assistance every year through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme.
The order states that head teachers should advise parents to utilize these funds specifically for purchasing the necessary winter clothing items. "It is the responsibility of parents to send their children to school regularly wearing their uniforms when the govt provides financial assistance," Sharma noted in his communication.
Behind the Order: Safety and Regular Attendance
This administrative move follows strict instructions from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who expressed concern over the persistent cold wave, dense fog, and the resultant safety risks for students. The overarching goal is twofold:
- Protect Health: To prevent any adverse effects of the extreme cold on children's health.
- Ensure Education: To maintain regular school attendance by removing a weather-related barrier.
Sharma's order underlined the current necessity, stating, "And given the severe cold currently prevailing in the state, wearing proper winter uniforms to school is even more essential." The directive aims to create a coordinated effort between education officers, school heads, and parents to safeguard students during the challenging winter period.
