Overwhelming response from Patiala students on first day

Patiala, August 2

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On the first day of reopening schools after a long Covid-induced closure students were welcomed with garlands by the school staff here today. All schools screened students at their respective gates before allowing them into their classrooms.

Harinder Kaur, The District Education Officer (DEO), said response of students was overwhelming. “Around 60 per cent students attended government schools on the first day. In the coming days, the attendance will definitely improve,” the DEO added.

Kashish Arora, a Class XII student, said, “Physical classes are much better than online. I was eagerly waiting to come to school. Now, I can meet my classmates.”

A Class XI student of private school said, “The face-to-face interaction with teachers will definitely help in understanding contents of the syllabi more easily.”

Rajdeep Singh, chairman, Play Ways Senior Secondary School, said, “Online classes are just a makeshift arrangement. There is no better alternative to in-person classes, especially in case of kids. Though cognitive stuff can be taught well during online classes, physical classes on school premises will ensure all around development of students.”

Meanwhile, Hardeep Toderpur, state leader, Democratic Teachers Front, said they welcomed the government’s decision to open schools. “Online classes are tough for both students and teachers,” he said.

Online classes added to stress because students and teachers were not comfortable in handling digital gadgets, he added. Besides, there were hurdles in online teaching because for many students having smart phone was not economically viable, he said.—TNS