Berhampur: Schools in the tribal-dominated districts of Gajapati and Kandhamal reopened on Thursday for the 2026-27 academic year, following a summer vacation of approximately 50 days.
Extended Break in Some Districts
Authorities in several other districts, including Ganjam, have extended the summer break until June 20 due to the ongoing heatwave. Since June 21 falls on a Sunday, schools in these districts will reopen on Monday, according to sources.
Thin Attendance on First Day
Attendance remained low on the first day, even in residential schools operated by the tribal development department in Kandhamal. Rabi Narayan Mishra, the district welfare officer (DWO) of Kandhamal, stated, “Students are likely to come from next week, when classes pick up.”
Preparations for Reopening
Before the reopening, school premises, classrooms, and hostel rooms were cleaned. Drinking water facilities were ensured, and hostel water tanks were cleaned. Rajesh Swain, the district education officer (DEO) of Kandhamal, said, “We have taken all safety and cleanliness measures in schools for the new academic year.”
The DWO added that hostels were prepared, with premises cleaned and damaged beds replaced during the vacation. However, only a few students and hostel inmates reported on the first day. Although exact attendance figures were unavailable, very few students turned up in Gajapati as well, as per an education official.
Heatwave Prompts Extension in Ganjam
In Ganjam, the district administration extended the vacation by two days due to heat and humidity. District collector Keerthi Vassan V directed teaching and non-teaching staff to remain present during school hours and asked schools to conduct online classes, if feasible, to ensure learning continuity.
