School closure creating gaps in learning: Delhi private school body – Times of India

“Education plays the most vital role in shaping individuals and children’s holistic development… Unfortunately, Delhi schools have had pandemic-driven closures for about two years and this has taken a massive toll on mental and physical health of children of all ages. The present scenario is creating huge learning gaps, leading to a generational catastrophe which will unfailingly have long-term and deep-rooted repercussions,” NPSC said in the letter.

It also questioned why schools have remained shut if other public places have opened. “When schools reopened after the lockdown for some time, we observed not only learning lapses, but also change in behavioural patterns and mental health issues in students. Online mode is leading to undesirable scenarios like increased exposure to violence and undesirable content, cyber bullying, obesity, social isolation, feeling of uncertainty, aggression, frustration and depression,” said the letter, adding that the vaccination drive for the 15-17 age group was already on in full force.
The Jagrook Parents Association also sent a letter to the LG, saying higher education institutes must reopen too. “Schools and colleges have better discipline and follow all the SOPs,” its president Virendra Singh said.

The matter of reopening schools is likely to be taken up at the next DDMA meet on January 7.

“The decision to impose, revoke or relax restrictions is taken by DDMA, which comprises, apart from the LG, the CM, deputy CM, ministers, experts and the chief secretary. It takes into account all variables of specific as well as larger public interest. Any decision to continue with curbs is taken keeping the pros and cons in mind,” the office of the LG, who is DDMA chairman, said.