All schools, colleges in Punjab to reopen on Monday

Education minister Harjot Singh Bains on Sunday announced that all educational institutions — schools, colleges, and universities — in Punjab will reopen from Monday. Regular classes and examinations will resume as per the academic schedule.

Given the prevailing circumstances. the minister directed all government and private institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of students, particularly those staying on the campus.

Bains emphasised that no student should be compelled to leave campus if they are unable or unwilling to do so due to safety, transport or personal concerns. He categorically said that the educational institutes must ensure that food, shelter, care and other essential services are provided without disruption.

The minister further informed that a letter has been issued to all universities in this regard, stating that students will who choose to return home will not face academic penalties. Examinations may be rescheduled or alternative arrangements may be provided, as needed.

To ensure seamless support, he further directed institutes to designate nodal officers and establish helpdesks. These will facilitate effective communication with students and promptly address any concerns or issues that may arise.

Meanwhile, schools in Punjab's six border districts as well as Sangrur will remain closed on May 12, officials said, adding that added blackout measures were enforced late on Sunday in Hoshiarpur as a precautionary measure.

Academic institutions in the rest of the state will, however, reopen on May 12, they said.

The authorities in Fazilka, Pathankot, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur and Tarn Taran districts that lie on the border with Pakistan have ordered schools to remain shut.

Punjab shares a 553-kilometre border with Pakistan.