Jalandhar: Schools reopen, severe chill keeps pupils away
Teachers worried as pre-board examinations start tomorrow
Schools across Jalandhar reopened today after winter vacations were extended twice due to extreme cold conditions.
However, the resumption of classes witnessed poor student turnout, with most schools recording only around 50 per cent attendance, while some institutions reported an even lower presence of 20 to 30 per cent. In some classes, only one or two students were present and attending lessons, while in other schools, entire classes were found to be absent.
Teachers attributed the low attendance to the prevailing cold wave gripping the region.
A teacher from a government school in Jalandhar said the situation was expected given the harsh weather. “There is extreme cold, which is why students did not come. There was very little attendance today,” he said.
Echoing similar concerns, another school teacher said attendance was extremely low, despite examinations being just around the corner.
“Papers are approaching and students have not come,” the teacher remarked, expressing concern over students missing crucial preparation time.
Even in government primary schools, student strength remained extremely low. Attendance was particularly affected among younger children, who largely avoided coming to school due to the prevailing extreme cold weather. Parents were reluctant to send small children to school, fearing health issues caused by harsh temperatures.
Meanwhile, District Education Officer (Secondary) Gurinderjit Kaur acknowledged the issue and said instructions would be issued to schools to ensure regular attendance. “Pre-board examinations will start from January 16, and students must come to school daily,” she said.
The DEO also conducted a visit to one of the schools that recorded nearly 50 per cent attendance to review the situation first-hand. She interacted with school staff and emphasised the importance of classroom learning, especially with examinations nearing.
Education officials said they are monitoring the situation closely and may take further steps to improve attendance if the trend continues. Parents have also been urged to send their children to school regularly, while schools have been advised to ensure a warm and safe environment for students during the cold spell.
