Karnataka schools to start modified Vidyagama: Minister

Karnataka Education minister Suresh Kumar said that Vidyagama programme will be re-implemented in schools with some modifications. Formation of a team of 15 to 20 students, sanitization facility to be taken care of, following standard operating procedures, etc are among the modifications to be made in the programme which was launched back in August this year.

Bengaluru: Education minister Suresh Kumar said that a decision was taken to revise the Vidyagama scheme under the Department of Public Education, according to the Supreme Court order.

"The Vidyagama programme which began on August 8th, was temporarily shut down on October 10th. It helps to help children to stay connected to the school, avoid quitting of studies and opting for jobs, restrict child marriage and child labor in rural areas," minister added.

Vidyagama is a continuous learning programme for school children introduced by the state government of Karnataka. The programme helps to reach out to students by taking classes at doorsteps in their villages.

It is being implemented in government, aided and unaided schools. However, the online classes and lessons in Chandana channel will continue.

"Students with fever, cough, common cold and symptoms of Covid-19 will not be allowed to enter the school premises. Sanitizer, soap and other arrangements will be provided to the students," he said.

The modifications include:

Forming a team of 15 to 20 students according to the number of teachers and rooms available. Sanitization will be done under the supervision of local self government bodies. Children have been advised to carry drinking water from home for themselves. They will be allowed to come to campuses for half a day.

Classes to be conducted scientifically as per the recommendation of an expert panel. All types of standard operating procedures will be followed. Teachers will form a group of students in their respective neighborhood.

The Chief Executive Officer of respective districts will be in charge of the programme, whereas the Deputy Director of the Department of Public Instruction will be the supervise Vidyagama.