Mumbai: Due to the ongoing heatwave across Maharashtra, the School Education Department has issued a directive mandating that all schools operate exclusively during morning hours. This measure is aimed at protecting students from extreme temperatures and safeguarding their well-being.
Under the new schedule, primary school classes will take place from 7:00 AM to 11:15 AM, while secondary school classes will run from 7:00 AM to 11:45 AM. The directive, issued by Sharad Gosavi, Director of Primary Education, notes that several districts had already introduced morning sessions to mitigate health risks. However, the department deemed it necessary to establish a uniform schedule across the state, prompting the formalisation of these timings in the recent circular.
The order applies to all schools, irrespective of whether they are government-run or privately managed. Additionally, schools have been instructed to suspend outdoor physical activities and ensure that classrooms are equipped with functional fans. Schools must also provide cold drinking water to students to prevent heat-related health issues.
While this decision has been widely welcomed, some schools operating under a ‘two-session’ schedule may face challenges in its implementation. Sushil Shejule, a teacher at one such school, expressed concerns: “We don’t know how to merge the students from both shifts into a single shift. There will also be a shortage of seating. We have received no guidance on how to implement this.”
The decision to alter school hours was largely influenced by soaring temperatures in regions like Vidarbha and Kalyan Rural, where temperatures have risen to 40°C. Authorities also observed a decline in student attendance during afternoon sessions in areas such as Thane Rural and Pune, further justifying the need for adjusted timings.
Welcoming the move, Mahendra Ganpule from the Maharashtra State Principals Association said, “This decision not only ensures the health and safety of students but also brings much-needed uniformity to school schedules across Maharashtra. It is a well-thought-out step in the right direction.”
As temperatures are expected to remain high, the revised school timings will remain in effect until further notice, ensuring that students can continue their education in a safe and conducive environment. However, for schools with dual sessions, the implementation of this new order remains a concern due to logistical challenges such as seating capacity and scheduling.
