Mangaluru : After 19 months, lower primary classes  (1 to 5)  reopened on October 25. While government and aided schools welcomed students in standards I to V back to the classroom.

As the covid19 positivity rate in the district is quite low, the classes are being opened to an enthusiastic response.

In Dakshina Kannada, 1,57,562 students studying in standards 1 to 5 will be attending school. For them, classes will be held on alternative days for three days a week. From November 2, classes will be held regularly. Deputy director of public instruction of the district, Malleswamy, said that all the preparations have been made and the parents are expected to send their children to schools. He however said that those who want to get online education will get it.

The students will be put through thermal screening and made to sit in classes by maintaining a distance of one metre between them. School will be disinfected by spraying sodium hypochlorite solution every day and such other Covid complaint measures are to be undertaken additionally by the school staff. Consent letters from the parents are a must. Therefore, students cannot be forced to attend classes.

In Udupi district, 220 government schools, six aided, 15 unaided and eight other schools are being opened for the students today. It is mandatory for the teachers to get vaccinated against covid19 and wearing of masks is mandatory for the teachers and students alike. Reportedly, attendance in schools in general is said to be good.