In a major development, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Tuesday (8 September) issued a notification allowing a phased and voluntary resumption of schools for classes nine to 12 from 21 September onwards, reports Indian Express.

As per the guidelines issued by the MoHFW, only schools outside of containment zones will be allowed to reopen. However, teachers, students and other staff members who live in any of the containment zones will not be allowed to attend schools.

The guidelines also stress that before the resumption of activities, all work areas intended for teaching/demonstrations etc., including laboratories, other common utility areas shall be sanitized with 1 per cent sodium hypochlorite solution, with particular attention to frequently touched surfaces.

Accroding to the guidelines, the attendance for students will be voluntary. Meanwhile, online classes will also continue. Those attending school will have to wear masks compulsorily.

The guidelines also underscored that students can attend schools only after the written consent of the parents/guardians. Also, the interaction between students and teachers must be organised in a staggered manner.

Even for guidance, all senior students will not report to school together. Guidance activities will be staggered with students being allocated specific time for reporting.

The schools will also have to ensure hand washing facilities along with provision of soap.

Furthermore, any activity which could lead to crowding, like morning assembly or sports and other activities would not be permitted. Sharing of items such as class notes or stationery amongst students will also be prohibited.

Along with schools, skill or entrepreneurship training, and also colleges will be allowed to open from 21 September onwards.