The coronavirus severely disrupted the academic calendar across the globe. Schools were shut and children were confined to their homes for months. Some countries were the COVID-19 pandemic is slowly coming under control, schools are reopening. Watch report on schools re-opening in Indonesia.

Fineprint: Is it too early to reopen schools? Indonesia re-open schools in COVID-19 pandemic

Transparent tents, online courses, and home visits with portable social distancing barriers - a kindergarten in Indonesia is exploring innovative teaching methods to make sure children's education is not hampered by the pandemic.

Indonesian kindergarten turns to innovative teaching to keep children safe

When students in Greenville, South Carolina return to school on August 24th, the environment will look much different. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, student class sizes will be reduced to comply with CDC guidelines.

Schools prepare for socially distant classrooms

An Ecuadorean teenager has set up an improvised school under a tree in a poor neighborhood of northern Guayaquil for some 40 students who haven't been able to study during the COVID-19 lockdown for lack of internet access.

Ecuador teen teaches class under a tree for kids without internet

The US President Donald Trump had recently announced on his Twitter account that he may stop funding the schools that refuse to reopen amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country.

Group of health experts, education experts and parents have now come forward against this threat made my Trump on Twitter a couple of days ago, that he still maintains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-cut-off-funding-to-us-schools-if-they-dont-reopen-by-november-311787">Also read:&nbsp;Trump threatens to cut off funding to US schools if they don't reopen by November</a>

"In Germany, Denmark, Norway, &nbsp;Sweden and many other countries, SCHOOLS ARE OPEN WITH NO PROBLEMS. The Dems think it would be bad for them politically if U.S. schools open before the November Election, but is important for the children &amp; families. May cut off funding if not open!," Trump had tweeted. He later criticised CDC's guidelines, calling them to be "very tough and expensive guidelines".

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I disagree with <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCgov</a> on their very tough &amp; expensive guidelines for opening schools. While they want them open, they are asking schools to do very impractical things. I will be meeting with them!!!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1280857657365200902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Public health agencies must make recommendations based on evidence, not politics," the American Academy of Pediatrics, two national teachers' unions and a school superintendents' group said.

Since Trump threatened to cut off the funding for schools, parents and concerned citizens have been calling out the President on his careless statement and have advised schools and everyone else to listen to and rely on experts, rather than Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-to-sue-trump-over-order-revoking-foreign-student-visas-312110">Also read:&nbsp;California to sue Trump over order revoking foreign student visas</a>

"We should leave it to health experts to tell us when the time is best to open up school buildings, and listen to educators and administrators to shape how we do it," AAP, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the School Superintendents Association said in a joint statement.

Trump has also accused the Democratic party of not allowing schools and businesses to reopen so that the economy of the country crashes, which will adversely affect Trump's chances of getting re-elected later this year.

"Too many Universities and School Systems are about Radical Left Indoctrination, not Education," he said in a Twitter post on Friday. "Therefore, I am telling the Treasury Department to re-examine their Tax-Exempt Status and/or Funding, which will be taken away if this Propaganda or Act Against Public Policy continues. Our children must be Educated, not Indoctrinated!"

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Too many Universities and School Systems are about Radical Left Indoctrination, not Education. Therefore, I am telling the Treasury Department to re-examine their Tax-Exempt Status...
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1281616586273468416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, this threat was dismissed by experts quickly as most of the primary and secondary funding is local, so the Treasury Department can not help in such a case.

In their statement, AAP and the other groups urged Congress to provide more money to schools so they could reopen safely, calling the idea of withholding funds a "misguided approach."

Trump's opponent in the upcoming elections and former Vice President, Joe Biden, has advised schools to continue&nbsp;online classes as of now, as the cases have crossed three million this week in the country.

"We're not going to be bullied or threatened by the president," Maryland's Larry Hogan, another Republican governor, told a local media channel.

The US President Donald Trump had recently announced on his Twitter account that he may stop funding the schools that refuse to reopen amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country.

The US President Donald Trump had recently announced on his Twitter account that he may stop funding the schools that refuse to reopen amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country. Group of health experts, education experts and parents have now come forward against this threat made my Trump on Twitter a couple of days ago, that he still maintains. Also read: Trump threatens to cut off funding to US schools if they don't reopen by November "In Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and many other countries, SCHOOLS ARE OPEN WITH NO PROBLEMS. The Dems think it would be bad for them politically if U.S. schools open before the November Election, but is important for the children & families. May cut off funding if not open!," Trump had tweeted. He later criticised CDC's guidelines, calling them to be "very tough and expensive guidelines". I disagree with @CDCgov on their very tough & expensive guidelines for opening schools. While they want them open, they are asking schools to do very impractical things. I will be meeting with them!!! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 8, 2020 × "Public health agencies must make recommendations based on evidence, not politics," the American Academy of Pediatrics, two national teachers' unions and a school superintendents' group said. Since Trump threatened to cut off the funding for schools, parents and concerned citizens have been calling out the President on his careless statement and have advised schools and everyone else to listen to and rely on experts, rather than Trump. Also read: California to sue Trump over order revoking foreign student visas "We should leave it to health experts to tell us when the time is best to open up school buildings, and listen to educators and administrators to shape how we do it," AAP, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the School Superintendents Association said in a joint statement. Trump has also accused the Democratic party of not allowing schools and businesses to reopen so that the economy of the country crashes, which will adversely affect Trump's chances of getting re-elected later this year. "Too many Universities and School Systems are about Radical Left Indoctrination, not Education," he said in a Twitter post on Friday. "Therefore, I am telling the Treasury Department to re-examine their Tax-Exempt Status and/or Funding, which will be taken away if this Propaganda or Act Against Public Policy continues. Our children must be Educated, not Indoctrinated!" Too many Universities and School Systems are about Radical Left Indoctrination, not Education. Therefore, I am telling the Treasury Department to re-examine their Tax-Exempt Status... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 10, 2020 × However, this threat was dismissed by experts quickly as most of the primary and secondary funding is local, so the Treasury Department can not help in such a case. In their statement, AAP and the other groups urged Congress to provide more money to schools so they could reopen safely, calling the idea of withholding funds a "misguided approach." Trump's opponent in the upcoming elections and former Vice President, Joe Biden, has advised schools to continue online classes as of now, as the cases have crossed three million this week in the country. "We're not going to be bullied or threatened by the president," Maryland's Larry Hogan, another Republican governor, told a local media channel.

Not going to be bullied or threatened by the President: Experts react to Trump's threats of reopening US schools

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes.

As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching.

Out of the 42 new cases, 34 were locally transmitted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-deplores-australian-safe-haven-offer-to-hong-kongers-311927">Also read:&nbsp;China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers</a>

The&nbsp;Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said the decision was taken after it was observed that some of the recent cases were of students and parents.

Schools all over the city had been closed since February. However, some schools had now started reopening.&nbsp;Many international schools are already on summer break.

The total number of coronavirus cases has now increased to&nbsp;1,366, including seven people who lost their lives to the novel virus.

The city has been observing protests against the new infamous security law implemented on the city by China, which has been criticised for suppressing democratic voices. The protests, too, may have added to the spread of the infection, some believe.

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes. As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching.

With a sudden increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the city, Hong Kong officials have asked the schools to suspend school and shift to online classes. As the city reported 42 new cases on Thursday, the Hong Kong Education Bureau on Friday announced that all schools should be closed from Monday, and the classes should be shifted back to online teaching. Out of the 42 new cases, 34 were locally transmitted. Also read: China deplores Australian safe haven offer to Hong Kongers The Education Secretary Kevin Yeung said the decision was taken after it was observed that some of the recent cases were of students and parents. Schools all over the city had been closed since February. However, some schools had now started reopening. Many international schools are already on summer break. The total number of coronavirus cases has now increased to 1,366, including seven people who lost their lives to the novel virus. The city has been observing protests against the new infamous security law implemented on the city by China, which has been criticised for suppressing democratic voices. The protests, too, may have added to the spread of the infection, some believe.

Hong Kong to close schools amid rise in COVID-19 cases

Schools have been forced to make a shift to digital classrooms amid the Coronavirus pandemic, but is this model effective? Do we have the right modules or tutorials for online education? Are teachers prepared for remote teaching? What about disadvantaged children and families who have no access to smart technologies? Will the lack of brick-and-mortar classrooms have long-lasting consequences for children? Or can online education be an effective alternative in a post-Covid world? Watch the show to find out.

Hard Reset: Impact of Coronavirus on Education

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home. 
 
Schools began reopening when the government eased its lockdown rules six weeks ago, but parents were allowed to keep their children at home and a strict health protocol meant that classes could only be half full.&nbsp; 
 
French President Emmanuel Macron announced a full and "obligatory" return to school for primary and middle schools in an address to the nation earlier this month and the restrictions have now been amended.&nbsp; 
 
"The objective is for 100% of primary school pupils and middle school students to return," Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told France Inter radio on Monday, although the government has implied that no sanctions will be taken against rebellious parents.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/protesters-douse-health-ministry-building-in-france-with-red-paint-307275" hreflang="en">Protesters douse health ministry building in France with red paint</a> 
 
The summer holidays begin in two weeks, but the government has argued that it is essential that children see their teachers and classmates again to end the year properly before breaking up for the two-month long break.&nbsp; 
 
"I'm so pleased to be going back to school!" said 8-year-old Adele in front of a Parisian school, after her first morning with all her classmates.&nbsp; 
 
Not far from Adele, 7-year-old Annika was also delighted. "I'm so happy to see my friends and teachers again. Learning at home isn't the same thing, school is better!"&nbsp;

Mixed response from parents 
Parents dropping their children off were thrilled too. 
 
"Oh, the joy! I've been waiting for this for a long time. My daughter is happy to go back and see her friends, and my wife can go back to work," said Maxime Aubin, father of two who lives in the northwest city of Rennes, in Brittany.&nbsp; 
 
But not all parents are pleased.&nbsp; 
 
A poll on Thursday by Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting for France Info and Le Figaro showed that only 45 per cent of parents were going to send their children back to school.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/macron-says-france-has-scored-its-first-victory-against-virus-as-country-lifts-curbs-305881" hreflang="en">Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs</a> 
 
And 56 per cent think the obligatory return announced by Macron is "a bad decision".&nbsp; 
 
"Many families won't take the risk of sending their children back to middle school," said Philippe Vincent from the majority union SNPDEN for headteachers. 
 
In some middle schools, he pointed out, schoolbooks had already been returned and end-of-the-year teacher-student sessions completed.&nbsp; 
 
From Monday, children from the same class can play together again, while ball games make their comeback on playgrounds.&nbsp; 
 
Other precautionary measures will however remain -- thorough and frequent handwashing is obligatory and playing equipment must be disinfected daily or left in isolation for 24 hours.

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home.

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home. Schools began reopening when the government eased its lockdown rules six weeks ago, but parents were allowed to keep their children at home and a strict health protocol meant that classes could only be half full. French President Emmanuel Macron announced a full and "obligatory" return to school for primary and middle schools in an address to the nation earlier this month and the restrictions have now been amended. "The objective is for 100% of primary school pupils and middle school students to return," Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told France Inter radio on Monday, although the government has implied that no sanctions will be taken against rebellious parents. Also read: Protesters douse health ministry building in France with red paint The summer holidays begin in two weeks, but the government has argued that it is essential that children see their teachers and classmates again to end the year properly before breaking up for the two-month long break. "I'm so pleased to be going back to school!" said 8-year-old Adele in front of a Parisian school, after her first morning with all her classmates. Not far from Adele, 7-year-old Annika was also delighted. "I'm so happy to see my friends and teachers again. Learning at home isn't the same thing, school is better!" Mixed response from parents Parents dropping their children off were thrilled too. "Oh, the joy! I've been waiting for this for a long time. My daughter is happy to go back and see her friends, and my wife can go back to work," said Maxime Aubin, father of two who lives in the northwest city of Rennes, in Brittany. But not all parents are pleased. A poll on Thursday by Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting for France Info and Le Figaro showed that only 45 per cent of parents were going to send their children back to school. Also read: Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs And 56 per cent think the obligatory return announced by Macron is "a bad decision". "Many families won't take the risk of sending their children back to middle school," said Philippe Vincent from the majority union SNPDEN for headteachers. In some middle schools, he pointed out, schoolbooks had already been returned and end-of-the-year teacher-student sessions completed. From Monday, children from the same class can play together again, while ball games make their comeback on playgrounds. Other precautionary measures will however remain -- thorough and frequent handwashing is obligatory and playing equipment must be disinfected daily or left in isolation for 24 hours.

French pupils return for 'obligatory' school after virus closure

While the number of coronavirus cases has been on a constant rise in the western state of India, the government has decided to allow students to return to their classrooms from July.

The decision has been taken only for the schools located in the non-red zones, and only for selected classes.

As of now, students of only classes IX, X and XII will be allowed to go back. In addition to the schools, the attendees, including the staff and students, should only be from the non-red zones (non-containment zones).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-rise-to-over-58000-in-mumbai-305916">Also read:&nbsp;Coronavirus cases rise to over 58,000 in Mumbai</a>

All other schools located in red zones will have to continue online teaching. "Though in some areas schools could not be opened, the process of teaching cannot be stopped. The use of digital technology to reach out with students should be adopted," the issued circular read.

Classes VI to VIII will be allowed to resume classroom teachings from August.

The schools will have to make sure everyone wears a facemask at all times, and all norms of social distancing are followed.

The decision was announced after&nbsp;School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad met the Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

"Classes of Standard 1 and 2 are exempted from online teaching. However, for remaining standards certain hours per week have been defined by the government. We are trying to use All India Radio (AIR) network as well to reach out to students with the curriculum," Gaikwad said.

While the number of coronavirus cases has been on a constant rise in the western state of India, the government has decided to allow students to return to their classrooms from July.

While the number of coronavirus cases has been on a constant rise in the western state of India, the government has decided to allow students to return to their classrooms from July. The decision has been taken only for the schools located in the non-red zones, and only for selected classes. As of now, students of only classes IX, X and XII will be allowed to go back. In addition to the schools, the attendees, including the staff and students, should only be from the non-red zones (non-containment zones). Also read: Coronavirus cases rise to over 58,000 in Mumbai All other schools located in red zones will have to continue online teaching. "Though in some areas schools could not be opened, the process of teaching cannot be stopped. The use of digital technology to reach out with students should be adopted," the issued circular read. Classes VI to VIII will be allowed to resume classroom teachings from August. The schools will have to make sure everyone wears a facemask at all times, and all norms of social distancing are followed. The decision was announced after School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad met the Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. "Classes of Standard 1 and 2 are exempted from online teaching. However, for remaining standards certain hours per week have been defined by the government. We are trying to use All India Radio (AIR) network as well to reach out to students with the curriculum," Gaikwad said.

COVID 19: Maharashtra high schools to reopen from July amid rising cases

The concept of online teaching-learning for school children - has not found favour with eminent scientist K Kasturirangan, who says direct physical and mental connection is important to bring out aspects such as playfulness and creativity in them.

The National Education Policy, 2019, draft committee chairperson stressed the need for face-to-face contacts, interactions, exchange of ideas and thoughts as he backed the traditional mode, amid a debate on online classes for children due to COVID-19-induced closure of schools.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eminent-scientist-suggests-shift-system-in-schools-when-they-reopen-303968">Also read:&nbsp;Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen</a>

"Fundamentally, the physical and mental connection with children directly is extremely important. Playfulness, creativity and many other aspects can never be transferred through online learning", Kasturirangan, who was Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation between 1994 and 2003, told PTI.

He said 86 per cent of the brain grows by the age of eight, adding that issues associated with the early phase of children need to be assessed and evaluated carefully and any kind of new approach needs a scientific basis.

"Development of a brain is a continuous process within these eight years, and if you dont stimulate the brain properly by continuous interactions, then obviously you are missing a chance of really getting the best out of youngsters in terms of brain boat and performance, the recipient of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan said.

"There are issues of these which need to be analysed very carefully. Just the kind of solutions that we talk of for higher education like online and so on may not be the way to deal when it comes to dealing with the early phase of children, the former Rajya Sabha member said.

The issue of online education for school children needs to be looked into very carefully and one should not jump into any kind of approach without any scientific basis.

"There is much to be evaluated, and it has to be assessed", underlined Kasturirangan, who had also served as a Member of the now-defunct Planning Commission of India.

Another acclaimed scientist, Prof. C N R Rao, who was awarded 'Bharat Ratna' in 2014, also spoke out recently against introducing online classes for children, underscoring the importance of human interface for good communication and inspiring young minds.

The Honorary President of the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, and the Linus Pauling Research Professor said online classes for young children such as KG, first and second grade should be terminated.

"I am not an enthusiast about on-line teaching. We need human interface with students for good communication. That is how young minds can be inspired, Prof. Rao, who was Chairman of the Science Advisory Council to the Prime Minister from 1985-1989, and from 2004-2014, told PTI

The concept of online teaching-learning for school children - has not found favour with eminent scientist K Kasturirangan, who says direct physical and mental connection is important to bring out aspects such as playfulness and creativity in them.

The concept of online teaching-learning for school children - has not found favour with eminent scientist K Kasturirangan, who says direct physical and mental connection is important to bring out aspects such as playfulness and creativity in them. The National Education Policy, 2019, draft committee chairperson stressed the need for face-to-face contacts, interactions, exchange of ideas and thoughts as he backed the traditional mode, amid a debate on online classes for children due to COVID-19-induced closure of schools. Also read: Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen "Fundamentally, the physical and mental connection with children directly is extremely important. Playfulness, creativity and many other aspects can never be transferred through online learning", Kasturirangan, who was Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation between 1994 and 2003, told PTI. He said 86 per cent of the brain grows by the age of eight, adding that issues associated with the early phase of children need to be assessed and evaluated carefully and any kind of new approach needs a scientific basis. "Development of a brain is a continuous process within these eight years, and if you dont stimulate the brain properly by continuous interactions, then obviously you are missing a chance of really getting the best out of youngsters in terms of brain boat and performance, the recipient of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan said. "There are issues of these which need to be analysed very carefully. Just the kind of solutions that we talk of for higher education like online and so on may not be the way to deal when it comes to dealing with the early phase of children, the former Rajya Sabha member said. The issue of online education for school children needs to be looked into very carefully and one should not jump into any kind of approach without any scientific basis. "There is much to be evaluated, and it has to be assessed", underlined Kasturirangan, who had also served as a Member of the now-defunct Planning Commission of India. Another acclaimed scientist, Prof. C N R Rao, who was awarded 'Bharat Ratna' in 2014, also spoke out recently against introducing online classes for children, underscoring the importance of human interface for good communication and inspiring young minds. The Honorary President of the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, and the Linus Pauling Research Professor said online classes for young children such as KG, first and second grade should be terminated. "I am not an enthusiast about on-line teaching. We need human interface with students for good communication. That is how young minds can be inspired, Prof. Rao, who was Chairman of the Science Advisory Council to the Prime Minister from 1985-1989, and from 2004-2014, told PTI

Creativity can't be transferred through online classes: Kasturirangan

An FIR has been lodged against a teacher, Anamika Shukla, who had allegedly withdrawn over Rs 1 crore in salary for over a year from 25 different schools.Shukla was allegedly working as a teacher in 25 schools for 13 months and was withdrawing salary from all of these.

"Basic Education Officer has given a written complaint against the teacher Anamika Shukla. The complaint reads that she had landed the jobs through forged documents. FIR has been registered and further action will be taken," said Atul Sharma, SP (rural) while speaking to ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nothing-confirmed-so-far-yogi-government-on-up-teacher-earning-rs-1-crore-by-simultaneously-working-in-25-schools-303566">Also read:&nbsp;'Nothing confirmed so far': Yogi government on UP teacher earning Rs 1 crore by simultaneously working in 25 schools</a>

Anjali Agarwal, Basic Siksha Adhikari (BSA), Kasganj also commented on the same and said, "A notice was sent to the teacher after we found that documents of Anamika Shukla are listed for multiple postings, following which she came to our office to submit her resignation. She has been handed over to the police."

Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister told ANI that the government got to know about this case from the media and an investigation has been initiated into the matter.

"We got info through media that a teacher has been posted at 25 places. It has been found that there have been postings at Baghpat, Aligarh, Amethi, Saharanpur, and Ambedkar Nagar using records of Anamika Shukla. An investigation is underway," said Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister.

An FIR has been lodged against a teacher, Anamika Shukla, who had allegedly withdrawn over Rs 1 crore in salary for over a year from 25 different schools.Shukla was allegedly working as a teacher in 25 schools for 13 months and was withdrawing salary from all of these.

An FIR has been lodged against a teacher, Anamika Shukla, who had allegedly withdrawn over Rs 1 crore in salary for over a year from 25 different schools.Shukla was allegedly working as a teacher in 25 schools for 13 months and was withdrawing salary from all of these. "Basic Education Officer has given a written complaint against the teacher Anamika Shukla. The complaint reads that she had landed the jobs through forged documents. FIR has been registered and further action will be taken," said Atul Sharma, SP (rural) while speaking to ANI. Also read: 'Nothing confirmed so far': Yogi government on UP teacher earning Rs 1 crore by simultaneously working in 25 schools Anjali Agarwal, Basic Siksha Adhikari (BSA), Kasganj also commented on the same and said, "A notice was sent to the teacher after we found that documents of Anamika Shukla are listed for multiple postings, following which she came to our office to submit her resignation. She has been handed over to the police." Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister told ANI that the government got to know about this case from the media and an investigation has been initiated into the matter. "We got info through media that a teacher has been posted at 25 places. It has been found that there have been postings at Baghpat, Aligarh, Amethi, Saharanpur, and Ambedkar Nagar using records of Anamika Shukla. An investigation is underway," said Satish Dwivedi, Uttar Pradesh Education Minister.

FIR against UP teacher who withdrew over Rs 1 crore in salary from 25 schools

As the country shifted from lockdown 4.0 to unlock 1.0, state governments were given the freedom to decide closure and reopening of facilities on the basis of the local conditions.

Following the same, Haryana government has announced that students can head back to the schools from July, and college can reopen from August.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-parents-start-petition-to-keep-schools-colleges-shut-302778">Also watch:&nbsp;Indian Parents Start Petition to Keep Schools, Colleges Shut</a>&nbsp;

Haryana education minister, Kanwar Pal Gujjar, announced resuming teaching work in schools for classes 10, 11 and 12 from July, in the first phase of unlocking the economy. All colleges and universities, private or government, can reopen from August; first-year students will only commence their classes from September. However, the resumption can begin only in shifts, as only 50 per cent students will be allowed to attend the classes at a time.

“We will do it in a phased manner by starting teaching work for classes 10, 11 and 12 on July 1; for classes 6, 7, 8 and 9 after 15 days; and for the primary classes from August,” said Kanwar Pal Gujjar.

“The classes would be held in shifts so that half the students of a class come in first shift and the rest in the second shift. We are yet to decide whether it should be morning and evening shift or on alternate days”, he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/unlock-10-from-salons-to-schools-whats-reopening-and-what-stays-closed-302116">Have a look|&nbsp;Unlock 1.0: From salons to schools, what's reopening and what stays closed</a>

The state will first conduct few demo classes in selected schools to test the social distancing norms, and will collect feedback from teachers, parents and students on conducting classes in shifts.

The Directorate School Education has meanwhile asked District Education Officers to form committees and take feedback on the proposed plans from the stakeholders, to avoid making frequent changes later. A detailed report is being expected by June 07.

As the country shifted from lockdown 4.0 to unlock 1.0, state governments were given the freedom to decide closure and reopening of facilities on the basis of the local conditions.

As the country shifted from lockdown 4.0 to unlock 1.0, state governments were given the freedom to decide closure and reopening of facilities on the basis of the local conditions. Following the same, Haryana government has announced that students can head back to the schools from July, and college can reopen from August. Also watch: Indian Parents Start Petition to Keep Schools, Colleges Shut Haryana education minister, Kanwar Pal Gujjar, announced resuming teaching work in schools for classes 10, 11 and 12 from July, in the first phase of unlocking the economy. All colleges and universities, private or government, can reopen from August; first-year students will only commence their classes from September. However, the resumption can begin only in shifts, as only 50 per cent students will be allowed to attend the classes at a time. “We will do it in a phased manner by starting teaching work for classes 10, 11 and 12 on July 1; for classes 6, 7, 8 and 9 after 15 days; and for the primary classes from August,” said Kanwar Pal Gujjar. “The classes would be held in shifts so that half the students of a class come in first shift and the rest in the second shift. We are yet to decide whether it should be morning and evening shift or on alternate days”, he added. Have a look| Unlock 1.0: From salons to schools, what's reopening and what stays closed The state will first conduct few demo classes in selected schools to test the social distancing norms, and will collect feedback from teachers, parents and students on conducting classes in shifts. The Directorate School Education has meanwhile asked District Education Officers to form committees and take feedback on the proposed plans from the stakeholders, to avoid making frequent changes later. A detailed report is being expected by June 07.

Haryana announces reopening of schools and colleges in phases; 50% students to attend in shifts

Israel partly reopened nurseries and kindergartens on Sunday (May 10), increasing the number of children who have returned to daycare as part of efforts to revive the economy as coronavirus worries subside.

Preschoolers return as Israel further eases coronavirus curbs

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time.&nbsp;

However, several states have decided to keep the schools shut to keep the students safe from getting infected by the virus, and to contain the spread of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-biggest-repatriation-operation-begins-air-india-flight-to-land-in-kochi-tonight-297236">Also read:&nbsp;India's biggest repatriation operation begins; first flight to land in Kochi</a>

Assam's State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered all state-run schools and colleges to commence summer vacations for the whole month of May.

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Assam govt has decided to declare summer vacation for schools and colleges from May 1 to May 31: State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma <a href="https://t.co/rvw6YtXw8P">pic.twitter.com/rvw6YtXw8P</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1258363297646206976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Punjab, too, on Thursday has declared summer vacations for a month, starting from May 15.

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The Punjab Government has decided to declare summer vacation in Government Colleges and Universities of the state from May 15 to June 15.
— Government of Punjab (@PunjabGovtIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabGovtIndia/status/1258339299616911365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Delhi's Education Ministry, too, declared summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for all schools and colleges. The statement, issued by the education department on Wednesday, directed the schools and colleges to not call the students to the campuses for any kind of work.

Schools and colleges all over the nation have been shut since mid-March. Majority of the institutes have started conducting online classes.

The HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that no exams for&nbsp;class 10 will be conducted nationwide, except for students of&nbsp;Northeast Delhi. The datesheet for class 12's remaining exams is also expected to be announced soon.

However, Goa, being a green zone, has decided to resume the state-board examinations. Class 10's exams will resume from May 20, and class 12's will resume from May 21 under the supervision of&nbsp;Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education.

The state government has granted permission for resuming the examinations, on the condition that all precautions for social distancing are followed.

Students seeking Prime Minister's Research Fellowship can also take a sigh of relief as the required GATE score has been decreased, as announced on Thursday.

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The required GATE score has been reduced to 650 from 750 apart from minimum CGPA of 8 or equivalent, for the students from any recognized institute/university (other than IISc/ IITs/NITs/IISERs/IIEST/CF IIITs): Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal <a href="https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP">https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP</a>
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Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal, has also announced on Thursday that the JEE Advanced examination will be conducted on August 23.

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time.

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time. However, several states have decided to keep the schools shut to keep the students safe from getting infected by the virus, and to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: India's biggest repatriation operation begins; first flight to land in Kochi Assam's State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered all state-run schools and colleges to commence summer vacations for the whole month of May. Assam govt has decided to declare summer vacation for schools and colleges from May 1 to May 31: State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pic.twitter.com/rvw6YtXw8P — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Punjab, too, on Thursday has declared summer vacations for a month, starting from May 15. The Punjab Government has decided to declare summer vacation in Government Colleges and Universities of the state from May 15 to June 15. — Government of Punjab (@PunjabGovtIndia) May 7, 2020 × Delhi's Education Ministry, too, declared summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for all schools and colleges. The statement, issued by the education department on Wednesday, directed the schools and colleges to not call the students to the campuses for any kind of work. Schools and colleges all over the nation have been shut since mid-March. Majority of the institutes have started conducting online classes. The HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that no exams for class 10 will be conducted nationwide, except for students of Northeast Delhi. The datesheet for class 12's remaining exams is also expected to be announced soon. However, Goa, being a green zone, has decided to resume the state-board examinations. Class 10's exams will resume from May 20, and class 12's will resume from May 21 under the supervision of Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. The state government has granted permission for resuming the examinations, on the condition that all precautions for social distancing are followed. Students seeking Prime Minister's Research Fellowship can also take a sigh of relief as the required GATE score has been decreased, as announced on Thursday. The required GATE score has been reduced to 650 from 750 apart from minimum CGPA of 8 or equivalent, for the students from any recognized institute/university (other than IISc/ IITs/NITs/IISERs/IIEST/CF IIITs): Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal, has also announced on Thursday that the JEE Advanced examination will be conducted on August 23.

JEE Advanced date announced; schools declare summer vacations

What do you do if you live in a cottage in the Tuscan countryside with a rubbish phone line that means no internet signal at home? 12-year-old Giulio Giovannini has found a solution. He packs a rucksack with his school books and a tablet, grabs a small table, a stool and drags his mum out of the house to drive him to the middle of nowhere to one particular spot on a hill under a tree where he can finally get a signal.

No internet? Italian boy drives miles to study under a tree in the middle of nowhere

How coronavirus outbreak is affecting daily lives of Iranians

China's capital Beijing will delay reopening the city's kindergartens, schools and universities, Reuters reported state-owned China National Radio (CNR) as saying on its official page on the microblogging website Weibo on Sunday.

China's capital Beijing will delay reopening the city's kindergartens, schools and universities, Reuters reported state-owned China National Radio (CNR) as saying on its official page on the microblogging website Weibo on Sunday. The measures are aimed at preventing the spread of the Wuhan coronavirus, the report added quoting CNR. Schools are currently closed for the Lunar New Year holiday. × Separately, the Beijing government said it will not lock down the city, CNR report said. China has also banned wildlife trade nationwide in markets, supermarkets, restaurants, and e-commerce platforms due to the coronavirus outbreak, the country's market watchdog, agricultural ministry, and forestry bureau said in a joint statement. Any places that breed wildlife should be isolated, and the transportation of wildlife should be banned, said the statement. The ban will take effect from Sunday. The virus which has infected more than 2,000 people globally and killed 56 people in China has been traced to a seafood market in Wuhan that was illegally selling wildlife.

Beijing to postpone reopening of city's kindergartens, schools, universities: Report

Banks and schools were closed in Lebanon on Tuesday as protesters tried to prevent employees from clocking in at state institutions nearly one month into an anti-graft street movement.

Unprecedented protests erupted across Lebanon on October 17, demanding the ouster of a generation of politicians seen by demonstrators as inefficient and corrupt.

The government stepped down on October 29 but it remains in a caretaker capacity as no overt efforts have been made to form a new one.

Dozens of protesters gathered near the Palace of Justice in central Beirut on Tuesday morning, demanding an independent judiciary as they tried to prevent judges and lawyers from going to work, an AFP correspondent said.

In the town of Aley east of Beirut, in the southern city of Tyre, and the eastern town of Baalbek, demonstrators held sit-ins outside or inside the offices of the state telecommunications provider, local media reported.

Many schools and universities were closed, as were banks after their employees called for a general strike over alleged mistreatment by customers last week.

Banks have restricted access to dollars since the start of the protests, sparking fears of the devaluation of the local currency and discontent among account holders.

The central bank on Monday, however, insisted the Lebanese pound would remain pegged to the dollar and said it had asked banks to lift restrictions on withdrawals.

Students, who have emerged as key players in the uprising, were expected to hold further demonstrations later in the day ahead of a presidential address in the evening.

The leaderless protest movement first erupted after a proposed tax on calls via free phone applications, but it has since morphed into an unprecedented cross-sectarian outcry against everything from perceived state corruption to rampant electricity cuts.

People in the street say they are fed up with the same political families dominating government institutions since the end of the 1975-1990 civil war.

Protesters are demanding a fresh cabinet include independent experts not affiliated to traditional political parties, but no date has yet been set for required parliamentary consultations.

Government formation typically takes months in Lebanon, with protracted debate on how to best maintain a fragile balance between religious communities.

The World Bank says around a third of Lebanese live in poverty and has warned the country's struggling economy could further deteriorate if a new cabinet is not formed rapidly.

Banks and schools were closed in Lebanon on Tuesday as protesters tried to prevent employees from clocking in at state institutions nearly one month into an anti-graft street movement.

Banks and schools were closed in Lebanon on Tuesday as protesters tried to prevent employees from clocking in at state institutions nearly one month into an anti-graft street movement. Unprecedented protests erupted across Lebanon on October 17, demanding the ouster of a generation of politicians seen by demonstrators as inefficient and corrupt. The government stepped down on October 29 but it remains in a caretaker capacity as no overt efforts have been made to form a new one. Dozens of protesters gathered near the Palace of Justice in central Beirut on Tuesday morning, demanding an independent judiciary as they tried to prevent judges and lawyers from going to work, an AFP correspondent said. In the town of Aley east of Beirut, in the southern city of Tyre, and the eastern town of Baalbek, demonstrators held sit-ins outside or inside the offices of the state telecommunications provider, local media reported. Many schools and universities were closed, as were banks after their employees called for a general strike over alleged mistreatment by customers last week. Banks have restricted access to dollars since the start of the protests, sparking fears of the devaluation of the local currency and discontent among account holders. The central bank on Monday, however, insisted the Lebanese pound would remain pegged to the dollar and said it had asked banks to lift restrictions on withdrawals. Students, who have emerged as key players in the uprising, were expected to hold further demonstrations later in the day ahead of a presidential address in the evening. The leaderless protest movement first erupted after a proposed tax on calls via free phone applications, but it has since morphed into an unprecedented cross-sectarian outcry against everything from perceived state corruption to rampant electricity cuts. People in the street say they are fed up with the same political families dominating government institutions since the end of the 1975-1990 civil war. Protesters are demanding a fresh cabinet include independent experts not affiliated to traditional political parties, but no date has yet been set for required parliamentary consultations. Government formation typically takes months in Lebanon, with protracted debate on how to best maintain a fragile balance between religious communities. The World Bank says around a third of Lebanese live in poverty and has warned the country's struggling economy could further deteriorate if a new cabinet is not formed rapidly.

Lebanese banks, schools shut as protesters push on

Scores of buildings situated in the low-lying areas of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-rise-in-yamuna-ganga-water-level-leads-to-flooding-in-parts-of-prayagraj-250163">Prayagraj</a> have been partially submerged owing to the rise of water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna due to heavy rainfall.

Schools located in Prayagraj city will remain closed for three days starting today in view of floods situation in the region.

In a letter written to schools principals, the district schools coordinator said, "As precaution measure and safety of students, it has been decided that all schools situated in city area will remain closed for three days from September 19 to September 21 due to flood situation in Prayagraj.

"As many as 210 people were moved into relief camps near Ganganagar village in the district on Sunday after water burst into a few villages as rivers continue to swell owing to heavy rainfall in the region.

According to the people in the relief camps, proper arrangements have been made for the stay but there are still some problems.

Incessant rains have led to a flood in the region with villages near the bank of Ganga river partially submerged in water.

Scores of buildings situated in the low-lying areas of Prayagraj have been partially submerged owing to the rise of water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna due to heavy rainfall.

Scores of buildings situated in the low-lying areas of Prayagraj have been partially submerged owing to the rise of water level of rivers Ganga and Yamuna due to heavy rainfall. Schools located in Prayagraj city will remain closed for three days starting today in view of floods situation in the region. In a letter written to schools principals, the district schools coordinator said, "As precaution measure and safety of students, it has been decided that all schools situated in city area will remain closed for three days from September 19 to September 21 due to flood situation in Prayagraj. "As many as 210 people were moved into relief camps near Ganganagar village in the district on Sunday after water burst into a few villages as rivers continue to swell owing to heavy rainfall in the region. According to the people in the relief camps, proper arrangements have been made for the stay but there are still some problems. Incessant rains have led to a flood in the region with villages near the bank of Ganga river partially submerged in water.

Prayagraj's low-lying areas partially submerged as water level rises in Ganga, Yamuna

Toxic haze from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesians-choked-by-forest-fire-haze-pray-for-rain-249464">Indonesian forest fires</a> closed schools and airports across the country and in neighbouring Malaysia Wednesday, while air quality worsened in Singapore just days before the city's Formula One motor race.

Illegal fires to clear land for agriculture are blazing out of control on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-shuts-schools-as-forest-fires-choke-borneo-sumatra-islands-250025">Sumatra and Borneo islands</a>, with Jakarta deploying thousands of security forces and water-bombing aircraft to tackle them.

Indonesian blazes belch smog across Southeast Asia annually, but this year's are the worst since 2015 and have added to concerns about wildfire outbreaks <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-forest-fires-surge-stoking-global-warming-fears-249212">worldwide exacerbating global warming</a>.

On Wednesday, air quality deteriorated to "very unhealthy" levels on an official index in many parts of peninsular Malaysia, to the east of Sumatra, with the Kuala Lumpur skyline shrouded by dense smog.

Nearly 1,500 schools were closed across Malaysia due to air pollution, with over one million pupils affected, according to the education ministry.

A growing number of Malaysians were suffering health problems due to the haze, with authorities saying there had been a sharp increase in outpatients at government hospitals many suffering dry and itchy eyes.

Indonesian authorities said hundreds of schools in hard-hit Riau province on Sumatra were shut, without providing a precise number, while about 1,300 were closed in Central Kalimantan province on Borneo.

Borneo is shared between Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.

Poor visibility closed seven airports in the Indonesian part of Borneo, the transport ministry in Jakarta said. Scores of flights have already been diverted and cancelled in the region in recent days due to the smog.

'Singapore smog race?'

Air quality in Singapore worsened to unhealthy levels and a white smog obscured the striking waterfront skyline, featuring the Marina Bay Sands casino resort with its three towers and boat-shaped top level.

The worsening pollution increased fears that this weekend's Formula One race may be affected. Organisers say the possibility of haze is one of the issues in their contingency plan for Sunday's showpiece night race, but have not given further details.

The city-state's tourism board said spectators would be able to buy masks as protection from the haze if conditions did not improve and assistance would be provided for those who feel unwell, the Today news portal reported.

The fires have sparked tensions between Indonesia and Malaysia.

Indonesia's environment minister initially suggested the haze was from Malaysian fires despite satellite data showing hundreds of blazes in Indonesia and only a handful in its neighbour, prompting anger from her Malaysian counterpart.

Indonesia later sealed off dozens of plantations where it said fires were blazing, including some owned by Malaysia-based firms, deepening the row.

But Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who has struck a diplomatic tone throughout the crisis, said Malaysia may pass legislation forcing its companies to tackle fires on plantations abroad.

Malaysia wants its firms with sites overseas to put out blazes contributing to the haze, he said, adding: "Of course, if we find they are unwilling to take action, we may have to pass a law to make them responsible."

The Indonesian government has insisted it is doing all it can to fight the blazes. But this year's fires have been worsened by dry weather and experts believe there is little chance of them being extinguished until the onset of the rainy season in October.

Indonesia's meteorology, climate and geophysics agency said Wednesday that over 1,000 hotspots areas of intense heat detected by satellite that indicate a likely fire had been sighted, most of them on Sumatra.

Toxic haze from Indonesian forest fires closed schools and airports across the country and in neighbouring Malaysia Wednesday, while air quality worsened in Singapore just days before the city's Formula One motor race.

Toxic haze from Indonesian forest fires closed schools and airports across the country and in neighbouring Malaysia Wednesday, while air quality worsened in Singapore just days before the city's Formula One motor race. Illegal fires to clear land for agriculture are blazing out of control on Sumatra and Borneo islands, with Jakarta deploying thousands of security forces and water-bombing aircraft to tackle them. Indonesian blazes belch smog across Southeast Asia annually, but this year's are the worst since 2015 and have added to concerns about wildfire outbreaks worldwide exacerbating global warming. On Wednesday, air quality deteriorated to "very unhealthy" levels on an official index in many parts of peninsular Malaysia, to the east of Sumatra, with the Kuala Lumpur skyline shrouded by dense smog. Nearly 1,500 schools were closed across Malaysia due to air pollution, with over one million pupils affected, according to the education ministry. A growing number of Malaysians were suffering health problems due to the haze, with authorities saying there had been a sharp increase in outpatients at government hospitals many suffering dry and itchy eyes. Indonesian authorities said hundreds of schools in hard-hit Riau province on Sumatra were shut, without providing a precise number, while about 1,300 were closed in Central Kalimantan province on Borneo. Borneo is shared between Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. Poor visibility closed seven airports in the Indonesian part of Borneo, the transport ministry in Jakarta said. Scores of flights have already been diverted and cancelled in the region in recent days due to the smog. 'Singapore smog race?' Air quality in Singapore worsened to unhealthy levels and a white smog obscured the striking waterfront skyline, featuring the Marina Bay Sands casino resort with its three towers and boat-shaped top level. The worsening pollution increased fears that this weekend's Formula One race may be affected. Organisers say the possibility of haze is one of the issues in their contingency plan for Sunday's showpiece night race, but have not given further details. The city-state's tourism board said spectators would be able to buy masks as protection from the haze if conditions did not improve and assistance would be provided for those who feel unwell, the Today news portal reported. The fires have sparked tensions between Indonesia and Malaysia. Indonesia's environment minister initially suggested the haze was from Malaysian fires despite satellite data showing hundreds of blazes in Indonesia and only a handful in its neighbour, prompting anger from her Malaysian counterpart. Indonesia later sealed off dozens of plantations where it said fires were blazing, including some owned by Malaysia-based firms, deepening the row. But Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who has struck a diplomatic tone throughout the crisis, said Malaysia may pass legislation forcing its companies to tackle fires on plantations abroad. Malaysia wants its firms with sites overseas to put out blazes contributing to the haze, he said, adding: "Of course, if we find they are unwilling to take action, we may have to pass a law to make them responsible." The Indonesian government has insisted it is doing all it can to fight the blazes. But this year's fires have been worsened by dry weather and experts believe there is little chance of them being extinguished until the onset of the rainy season in October. Indonesia's meteorology, climate and geophysics agency said Wednesday that over 1,000 hotspots areas of intense heat detected by satellite that indicate a likely fire had been sighted, most of them on Sumatra.

Schools, airports closed as Indonesia fires spark fears for Singapore F1

All government and private schools will remain closed on Saturday in the wake of heavy rains predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) here.

An order issued by District Magistrate, Dehradun on Friday said, "The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Dehradun on July 26 predicted heavy rains in Dehradun, keeping this in view all government and private schools that teach classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Saturday."

"The Anganwadi centres will also remain closed on Saturday," the order said.

On Friday, the IMD had issued an "Orange Alert" and predicted heavy rainfall in seven districts of Uttarakhand.&nbsp;

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri districts of Uttarakhand during next 24 hours," IMD had said.

All government and private schools will remain closed on Saturday in the wake of heavy rains predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) here. An order issued by District Magistrate, Dehradun on Friday said, "The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Dehradun on July 26 predicted heavy rains in Dehradun, keeping this in view all government and private schools that teach classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Saturday.

All government and private schools will remain closed on Saturday in the wake of heavy rains predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) here. An order issued by District Magistrate, Dehradun on Friday said, "The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Dehradun on July 26 predicted heavy rains in Dehradun, keeping this in view all government and private schools that teach classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Saturday." "The Anganwadi centres will also remain closed on Saturday," the order said. On Friday, the IMD had issued an "Orange Alert" and predicted heavy rainfall in seven districts of Uttarakhand. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri districts of Uttarakhand during next 24 hours," IMD had said.

Dehradun: Schools to remain closed today in wake of heavy rains predicted by IMD

Sri Lanka ordered tens of thousands of security personnel to secure public schools ahead of their reopening Monday, officials said, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/save-us-from-the-satans-sri-lanka-christians-pray-after-surviving-attacks-216084">following the Easter suicide bombings</a>.

The search for explosives and a security cordon thrown around 10,900 schools nationwide came as the government said it has expelled over 600 foreigners, including around 200 Islamic clerics, since the April 21 attacks claimed by the Islamic State group.

Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said "police and soldiers combed school premises and the surrounding areas to make sure it is safe for children to go back" on Monday.

As part of the clampdown after the attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels, the government announced a crackdown on foreign Islamic clerics operating in the majority Buddhist country.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-resort-town-hit-hard-by-tourism-slowdown-following-attacks-216107/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Home Affairs Minister Vajira Abeywardena said 200 clerics were found to have overstayed visas, for which fines were imposed and they were then expelled.

"Considering the current situation in the country, we have reviewed the visas system and took a decision to tighten visa restrictions for religious teachers," Abeywardena told AFP.

"Out of those who were sent out, about 200 were Islamic preachers."

The suicide attacks were led by a local cleric who is known to have travelled to neighbouring India and made contact with jihadists there.

The minister did not give the nationalities of those who have been expelled, but police have said many foreigners who have overstayed their visas were from Bangladesh, India, Maldives and Pakistan.

"There are religious institutions which have been getting in foreign preachers for decades," Abeywardena said. "We have no issues with them, but there are some which mushroomed recently. We will pay more attention to them."

The minister said the government was overhauling its visa policy following the attacks.

Sri Lanka has imposed a state of emergency since April 21 and given wide powers to troops and police to arrest and detain suspects. About 150 people have been taken into custody.&nbsp;

House-to-house searches are being carried out across the country looking for explosives and propaganda material of Islamic extremists.

Sri Lanka ordered tens of thousands of security personnel to secure public schools ahead of their reopening Monday, officials said, following the Easter suicide bombings.

Sri Lanka ordered tens of thousands of security personnel to secure public schools ahead of their reopening Monday, officials said, following the Easter suicide bombings. The search for explosives and a security cordon thrown around 10,900 schools nationwide came as the government said it has expelled over 600 foreigners, including around 200 Islamic clerics, since the April 21 attacks claimed by the Islamic State group. Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said "police and soldiers combed school premises and the surrounding areas to make sure it is safe for children to go back" on Monday. As part of the clampdown after the attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels, the government announced a crackdown on foreign Islamic clerics operating in the majority Buddhist country. Home Affairs Minister Vajira Abeywardena said 200 clerics were found to have overstayed visas, for which fines were imposed and they were then expelled. "Considering the current situation in the country, we have reviewed the visas system and took a decision to tighten visa restrictions for religious teachers," Abeywardena told AFP. "Out of those who were sent out, about 200 were Islamic preachers." The suicide attacks were led by a local cleric who is known to have travelled to neighbouring India and made contact with jihadists there. The minister did not give the nationalities of those who have been expelled, but police have said many foreigners who have overstayed their visas were from Bangladesh, India, Maldives and Pakistan. "There are religious institutions which have been getting in foreign preachers for decades," Abeywardena said. "We have no issues with them, but there are some which mushroomed recently. We will pay more attention to them." The minister said the government was overhauling its visa policy following the attacks. Sri Lanka has imposed a state of emergency since April 21 and given wide powers to troops and police to arrest and detain suspects. About 150 people have been taken into custody. House-to-house searches are being carried out across the country looking for explosives and propaganda material of Islamic extremists.

Sri Lanka secures schools before reopening following Easter suicide bombings

Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said.

A lorry is believed to have dumped the waste in southern Johor state last week, sending hazardous fumes across a wide area and causing those affected to display symptoms of poisoning such as nausea and vomiting.

Over 500 people, many of them school pupils, have received medical treatment after inhaling the fumes, with over 160 admitted to hospital, according to official news agency Bernama.&nbsp;

It was unclear what type of poisonous gas had been emitted near the industrial town of Pasir Gudang.

Education Minister Maszlee Malik initially ordered the closure of 43 schools in the area Wednesday, but later announced that figure had more than doubled.

"The ministry of education has decided to close all 111 schools in the Pasir Gudang area immediately," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The education ministry is requesting that all parties take precautions."

Three men were arrested earlier this week over the toxic waste dumping. One is expected to be charged in court soon and could face up to five years in jail if found guilty of breaking environmental protection laws.

Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said.

Over 100 schools in Malaysia have been closed after the dumping of toxic waste into a river caused hundreds of people to fall ill, including many children, authorities said. A lorry is believed to have dumped the waste in southern Johor state last week, sending hazardous fumes across a wide area and causing those affected to display symptoms of poisoning such as nausea and vomiting. Over 500 people, many of them school pupils, have received medical treatment after inhaling the fumes, with over 160 admitted to hospital, according to official news agency Bernama. It was unclear what type of poisonous gas had been emitted near the industrial town of Pasir Gudang. Education Minister Maszlee Malik initially ordered the closure of 43 schools in the area Wednesday, but later announced that figure had more than doubled. "The ministry of education has decided to close all 111 schools in the Pasir Gudang area immediately," he said in a statement. "The education ministry is requesting that all parties take precautions." Three men were arrested earlier this week over the toxic waste dumping. One is expected to be charged in court soon and could face up to five years in jail if found guilty of breaking environmental protection laws.

Over 100 Malaysian schools shut after toxic waste dump

Expressing concern over education becoming a business in Pakistan, the Supreme Court on Monday said that private schools are not a money-making industry and hinted at directing the government to take control of such educational institutes.

A three-member bench comprising Justices Gulzar Ahmed, Faisal Arbab and Ijazul Ahsan made the remarks during the hearing of a case regarding the use of contemptuous language in a letter addressed to the top judge by the administrations of two private schools in Islamabad, the Geo TV reported.

"How did you have the audacity to term the court's decision regarding hike in school fee 'a draconian judgment'. Your letters to parents are in contempt of court," Justice Ahsan told the private school authorities.

Justice Gulzar added, "What kind of things do you write? We should close your schools and can even nationalise them. We can ask the government to handle the administrative affairs of your schools."

The letter pertained to the apex court's decision ordering a 20 per cent decrease in the fee charged by the private schools, Express News reported.

The December 13, 2018 order was applicable to private schools charging over Rs 5,000 per month. It also restricted them to a maximum 8 per cent increase per year with the permission of a regulator. The apex court also directed administrations to return half the fee charged for summer vacations or adjust the amount, it added.

The private school's counsel clarified that the administration did not intent to disrespect the court.&nbsp;

"We apologise to the court. No such thing will happen again."

Justice Gulzar responded, "You can submit a written apology and we will take a look. We will get an audit done to check whether you have black or white money."

"Education has been made into a business," he said and added, "Schools are not a money-making industry."&nbsp;

"There's not a drop of shame in the eyes of private school owners," he added.

The counsel of the private schools then told the court, "We did not intend to insult the court and have implemented court orders and reduced fee."

However, Justice Gulzar said, "We are aware of the kind of comments that were passed after the court order. Why don't we deal with private schools and order the government to take charge of them? Schools are neither an industry nor a money-making sector."

The court then adjourned the hearing of the case for two weeks.

Expressing concern over education becoming a business in Pakistan, the Supreme Court on Monday said that private schools are not a money-making industry and hinted at directing the government to take control of such educational institutes.

Expressing concern over education becoming a business in Pakistan, the Supreme Court on Monday said that private schools are not a money-making industry and hinted at directing the government to take control of such educational institutes. A three-member bench comprising Justices Gulzar Ahmed, Faisal Arbab and Ijazul Ahsan made the remarks during the hearing of a case regarding the use of contemptuous language in a letter addressed to the top judge by the administrations of two private schools in Islamabad, the Geo TV reported. "How did you have the audacity to term the court's decision regarding hike in school fee 'a draconian judgment'. Your letters to parents are in contempt of court," Justice Ahsan told the private school authorities. Justice Gulzar added, "What kind of things do you write? We should close your schools and can even nationalise them. We can ask the government to handle the administrative affairs of your schools." The letter pertained to the apex court's decision ordering a 20 per cent decrease in the fee charged by the private schools, Express News reported. The December 13, 2018 order was applicable to private schools charging over Rs 5,000 per month. It also restricted them to a maximum 8 per cent increase per year with the permission of a regulator. The apex court also directed administrations to return half the fee charged for summer vacations or adjust the amount, it added. The private school's counsel clarified that the administration did not intent to disrespect the court. "We apologise to the court. No such thing will happen again." Justice Gulzar responded, "You can submit a written apology and we will take a look. We will get an audit done to check whether you have black or white money." "Education has been made into a business," he said and added, "Schools are not a money-making industry." "There's not a drop of shame in the eyes of private school owners," he added. The counsel of the private schools then told the court, "We did not intend to insult the court and have implemented court orders and reduced fee." However, Justice Gulzar said, "We are aware of the kind of comments that were passed after the court order. Why don't we deal with private schools and order the government to take charge of them? Schools are neither an industry nor a money-making sector." The court then adjourned the hearing of the case for two weeks.

Pakistan's top court hints at nationalising private schools

The Gujarat government Tuesday issued a circular asking district authorities to ensure a ban on online multi-player game PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, popularly called PUBG.

The state primary education department's circular was issued after a recommendation by the Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, said officials.

The circular directed District Primary Education Officers to take the necessary steps to enforce a ban on the game in primary schools.

It said the ban was necessary as children were getting addicted to the game and it was "adversely affecting their studies".

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has recommended a ban on the game across the country, said Jagruti Pandya, chairperson of the Gujarat child rights body.

"The NCPCR had sent a letter to all the states and recommended a ban on the game. All the states are required to implement it. Looking at the negative effects of the game, we had recently sent a letter to the state government recommending a ban on the game" said Pandya.&nbsp;

The Gujarat government Tuesday issued a circular asking district authorities to ensure a ban on online multi-player game PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, popularly called PUBG.

The Gujarat government Tuesday issued a circular asking district authorities to ensure a ban on online multi-player game PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, popularly called PUBG. The state primary education department's circular was issued after a recommendation by the Gujarat State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, said officials. The circular directed District Primary Education Officers to take the necessary steps to enforce a ban on the game in primary schools. It said the ban was necessary as children were getting addicted to the game and it was "adversely affecting their studies". The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has recommended a ban on the game across the country, said Jagruti Pandya, chairperson of the Gujarat child rights body. "The NCPCR had sent a letter to all the states and recommended a ban on the game. All the states are required to implement it. Looking at the negative effects of the game, we had recently sent a letter to the state government recommending a ban on the game" said Pandya.

Gujarat government asks school officials to ban students from playing PUBG

In pictures: Schools shut, banks closed for Bharat Bandh; everyday life affected

Amid the ongoing commotion in the Lok Sabha over several issues, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Tuesday said she often receives messages that schools function better than Parliament and wondered whether these disruptions go on to indicate that the behaviour of the members is worse than school kids. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
As the House re-convened at noon for the second time, members of the AIADMK, the TDP and the Congress started protesting again. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The Congress, demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), continued sloganeering on the Rafale issue. The BJP members demanded an apology from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The TDP members were demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh while the AIADMK MPs were protesting against a dam on the Cauvery river. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Amid the din, the National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in the House. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Upset with the disruption of proceedings, Mahajan said the members were well aware that this was an important session as elections will follow. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
She said the government was ready for discussion, but the ruckus continued. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"I receive messages several times saying, madam our schools run better. Please understand, what message are we trying to give: that are we worse than school kids," she said addressing the members. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Mahajan lamented that people from other countries were questioning as to "what was happening in our country". 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
She said she will talk to the government to ensure that issues demanded by the opposition are discussed. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
"But please, I request you with hands folded. Please maintain a standard in the House. I am sorry, but I am saying this openly. Many a time, people from other countries say, what is happening in India," she said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said his party was ready for discussion but demanded the formation of a JPC to probe the Rafale deal so that every file related to the matter can be scrutinised. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
To this Mahajan said that constitution of JPC was not under her purview. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the Supreme Court verdict has made things clear, indicating that there was no need for a JPC on the controversial issue. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Unhappy with the response, Congress members again started raising slogans, following which the House was adjourned for the day. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
The lower house has been witnessing daily disruptions since the winter session began last week. It had passed a bill on transgender rights on Monday.

Amid the ongoing commotion in the Lok Sabha over several issues, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Tuesday said she often receives messages that schools function better than Parliament and wondered whether these disruptions go on to indicate that the behaviour of the members is worse than school kids.

Amid the ongoing commotion in the Lok Sabha over several issues, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan Tuesday said she often receives messages that schools function better than Parliament and wondered whether these disruptions go on to indicate that the behaviour of the members is worse than school kids. As the House re-convened at noon for the second time, members of the AIADMK, the TDP and the Congress started protesting again. The Congress, demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), continued sloganeering on the Rafale issue. The BJP members demanded an apology from Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The TDP members were demanding special status for Andhra Pradesh while the AIADMK MPs were protesting against a dam on the Cauvery river. Amid the din, the National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced in the House. Upset with the disruption of proceedings, Mahajan said the members were well aware that this was an important session as elections will follow. She said the government was ready for discussion, but the ruckus continued. "I receive messages several times saying, madam our schools run better. Please understand, what message are we trying to give: that are we worse than school kids," she said addressing the members. Mahajan lamented that people from other countries were questioning as to "what was happening in our country". She said she will talk to the government to ensure that issues demanded by the opposition are discussed. "But please, I request you with hands folded. Please maintain a standard in the House. I am sorry, but I am saying this openly. Many a time, people from other countries say, what is happening in India," she said. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said his party was ready for discussion but demanded the formation of a JPC to probe the Rafale deal so that every file related to the matter can be scrutinised. To this Mahajan said that constitution of JPC was not under her purview. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the Supreme Court verdict has made things clear, indicating that there was no need for a JPC on the controversial issue. Unhappy with the response, Congress members again started raising slogans, following which the House was adjourned for the day. The lower house has been witnessing daily disruptions since the winter session began last week. It had passed a bill on transgender rights on Monday.

Schools run better than our parliament, are we worse than school kids, asks Sumitra Mahajan

By S. Suresh*

It is not easy to write about gun violence and gun-related deaths in America. Even before the ink is dry, more shootings will bring more deaths somewhere in the country. As I wrote this article, the nation had to contend with the heartbreaking loss of the lives of three women at the hands of a gunman in the small town of Yountville, California.

Presenting a frightful perspective on gun deaths in America, The New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof asserted in 2015 that, “More Americans have died from guns in the United States since 1968 than on battlefields of all the wars in American history.” &nbspThis statistic has been verified more than once by PolitiFact.

The Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit organization that keeps track of gun violence in America, not only provides a sad commentary on the senseless loss of lives from gun violence, but its records also demonstrate why Kristof’s astute observation will stay true for the foreseeable future in America. Studies show a direct correlation between gun ownership and gun-related injuries and deaths. In an analysis of gun ownership across 50 US states, those with more guns tend to have more gun-related deaths. In a similar study of developed countries, America, which has 42% of civilian-owned guns in the world, stands in a league of its own when it comes to gun-related deaths in comparison with countries like Japan, UK and the Netherlands, where gun ownership is low.

I have unequivocally stated that guns have no place in a civilized society, and that America has to engage in a debate on the relevance of the Second Amendment rather than gun control. In the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, it is alarming to see the dialogue shift toward the arming of teachers and school staff.

Armed Teachers? 

During the Republican primaries, President Donald Trump opined that the country’s response to gun violence ought to be more civilians with guns. “I am a Second Amendment person,” Trump said. “If we had guns in California on the other side where the bullets went in the different direction, you wouldn’t have 14 or 15 people dead right now. If even in Paris, if they had guns on the other side going in the opposite direction, you wouldn’t have 130 people plus dead.”

America’s delusional president wants to turn the entire country into a war zone, including schools, which are a gun-free zone today. Despite strong evidence that more guns would mean more gun-related deaths, Trump loves the idea of “bullets going in the other direction” and believes in the myth that more good guys with guns ought to be the nation’s answer to mass shootings. At a White House meeting on school safety, Trump stated that “certain highly adept people, people who understand weaponry and guns,” ought to be allowed to carry guns inside schools. He is not talking about soldiers or mercenaries, but about teachers. The president went as far as to suggest that teachers willing to carry guns should be paid bonuses.

Not surprisingly, Trump’s repeated call to arm teachers drew mixed reactions after the shooting in Parkland, Florida. The National Rifle Association (NRA) and some teachers are in favor of Trump’s call to arms, while many teachers’ unions, parents and educators have overwhelmingly rejected the idea. As with any aspect of the gun debate, the nation is polarized on the topic of arming schoolteachers. The strong divide was amply evident in Florida lawmakers’ knee-jerk response to the Parkland shooting.&nbsp

Reacting to the school shooting, Florida passed a bill on March 7 that has a provision for additional funding for arming school staff. While the bill has positive aspects, including raising the minimum age to purchase firearms, a three-day waiting period and restrictions on the sale of assault-style weapons, it also includes the provision to arm school teachers. Florida’s Senate narrowly passed a modified version of the bill to create a school marshal program with the additional funding earmarked for arming non-teaching school staff. Defying the NRA, Florida Governor Rick Scott, a self-professed proponent of common-sense gun laws, signed the bill into law on March 9. The final scene will play out in the federal court where the NRA has filed a lawsuit contesting that the new Florida law violates the Second Amendment constitutional rights of people under the age of 21 to bear arms.

Watershed Moment

Taking the step of arming school staff will, unfortunately, negate the benefits of other aspects of Florida’s rnew law. Schools are a place of learning. They are sacred institutions that impart knowledge to students. Nelson Mandela believed that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Teachers have the unenviable job of shaping the next generation of responsible citizens, creating in them a desire to learn and equipping them with the skills needed to change the world for the better.

Teachers are referred to in Sanskrit as gurus. A guru is a revered mentor who enlightens the minds of students and molds their values. A guru dispels the darkness that is ignorance by guiding students to the path of knowledge and wisdom. It is inconceivable that the very fabric of what a place of learning ought to be is getting ripped apart by the ill-conceived ideas of the most pedestrian president America has seen in recent times. With school marshals, armed school staff and teachers, America will create an indelible image in the impressionable minds of its young learners that guns and violence they bring are a normal way of life. In the process of making violence the norm in society, America is failing in its duties as a nation to nurture its next generation.

The year 2018 has the potential to be a watershed moment in the war against guns in America. Drawing the wrath of the NRA, retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart and Kroger have taken a stand and stoped selling assault-style rifles and guns to anyone under the age of 21, federal and state laws notwithstanding. Students are taking to the streets and staging protests against gun violence. Even a Republican governor with an A+ rating in the NRA’s grading system took the unexpected step of signing into law a gun-control bill that might improve Florida’s standing with the Giffords Law Center.

With the midterm elections looming in November 2018 can and should become a referendum on where America stands on guns today and how much power the NRA wields in American politics.&nbsp

*S. Suresh is a product executive with more than 25 years of experience in enterprise software.&nbsp

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By arming teachers, America will cause lasting damage in a society already rife with gun violence

By S. Suresh* It is not easy to write about gun violence and gun-related deaths in America. Even before the ink is dry, more shootings will bring more deaths somewhere in the country. As I wrote this article, the nation had to contend with the heartbreaking loss of the lives of three women at the hands of a gunman in the small town of Yountville, California. Presenting a frightful perspective on gun deaths in America, The New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof asserted in 2015 that, “More Americans have died from guns in the United States since 1968 than on battlefields of all the wars in American history.” &nbspThis statistic has been verified more than once by PolitiFact. The Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit organization that keeps track of gun violence in America, not only provides a sad commentary on the senseless loss of lives from gun violence, but its records also demonstrate why Kristof’s astute observation will stay true for the foreseeable future in America. Studies show a direct correlation between gun ownership and gun-related injuries and deaths. In an analysis of gun ownership across 50 US states, those with more guns tend to have more gun-related deaths. In a similar study of developed countries, America, which has 42% of civilian-owned guns in the world, stands in a league of its own when it comes to gun-related deaths in comparison with countries like Japan, UK and the Netherlands, where gun ownership is low. I have unequivocally stated that guns have no place in a civilized society, and that America has to engage in a debate on the relevance of the Second Amendment rather than gun control. In the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, it is alarming to see the dialogue shift toward the arming of teachers and school staff. Armed Teachers? During the Republican primaries, President Donald Trump opined that the country’s response to gun violence ought to be more civilians with guns. “I am a Second Amendment person,” Trump said. “If we had guns in California on the other side where the bullets went in the different direction, you wouldn’t have 14 or 15 people dead right now. If even in Paris, if they had guns on the other side going in the opposite direction, you wouldn’t have 130 people plus dead.” America’s delusional president wants to turn the entire country into a war zone, including schools, which are a gun-free zone today. Despite strong evidence that more guns would mean more gun-related deaths, Trump loves the idea of “bullets going in the other direction” and believes in the myth that more good guys with guns ought to be the nation’s answer to mass shootings. At a White House meeting on school safety, Trump stated that “certain highly adept people, people who understand weaponry and guns,” ought to be allowed to carry guns inside schools. He is not talking about soldiers or mercenaries, but about teachers. The president went as far as to suggest that teachers willing to carry guns should be paid bonuses. Not surprisingly, Trump’s repeated call to arm teachers drew mixed reactions after the shooting in Parkland, Florida. The National Rifle Association (NRA) and some teachers are in favor of Trump’s call to arms, while many teachers’ unions, parents and educators have overwhelmingly rejected the idea. As with any aspect of the gun debate, the nation is polarized on the topic of arming schoolteachers. The strong divide was amply evident in Florida lawmakers’ knee-jerk response to the Parkland shooting. Reacting to the school shooting, Florida passed a bill on March 7 that has a provision for additional funding for arming school staff. While the bill has positive aspects, including raising the minimum age to purchase firearms, a three-day waiting period and restrictions on the sale of assault-style weapons, it also includes the provision to arm school teachers. Florida’s Senate narrowly passed a modified version of the bill to create a school marshal program with the additional funding earmarked for arming non-teaching school staff. Defying the NRA, Florida Governor Rick Scott, a self-professed proponent of common-sense gun laws, signed the bill into law on March 9. The final scene will play out in the federal court where the NRA has filed a lawsuit contesting that the new Florida law violates the Second Amendment constitutional rights of people under the age of 21 to bear arms. Watershed Moment Taking the step of arming school staff will, unfortunately, negate the benefits of other aspects of Florida’s rnew law. Schools are a place of learning. They are sacred institutions that impart knowledge to students. Nelson Mandela believed that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Teachers have the unenviable job of shaping the next generation of responsible citizens, creating in them a desire to learn and equipping them with the skills needed to change the world for the better. Teachers are referred to in Sanskrit as gurus. A guru is a revered mentor who enlightens the minds of students and molds their values. A guru dispels the darkness that is ignorance by guiding students to the path of knowledge and wisdom. It is inconceivable that the very fabric of what a place of learning ought to be is getting ripped apart by the ill-conceived ideas of the most pedestrian president America has seen in recent times. With school marshals, armed school staff and teachers, America will create an indelible image in the impressionable minds of its young learners that guns and violence they bring are a normal way of life. In the process of making violence the norm in society, America is failing in its duties as a nation to nurture its next generation. The year 2018 has the potential to be a watershed moment in the war against guns in America. Drawing the wrath of the NRA, retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart and Kroger have taken a stand and stoped selling assault-style rifles and guns to anyone under the age of 21, federal and state laws notwithstanding. Students are taking to the streets and staging protests against gun violence. Even a Republican governor with an A+ rating in the NRA’s grading system took the unexpected step of signing into law a gun-control bill that might improve Florida’s standing with the Giffords Law Center. With the midterm elections looming in November 2018 can and should become a referendum on where America stands on guns today and how much power the NRA wields in American politics. *S. Suresh is a product executive with more than 25 years of experience in enterprise software. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Teachers are educators, not mercenaries

By S. Suresh*

It is not easy to write about gun violence and gun-related deaths in America. Even before the ink is dry, more shootings will bring more deaths somewhere in the country. As I wrote this article, the nation had to contend with the heartbreaking loss of the lives of three women at the hands of a gunman in the small town of Yountville, California.

Presenting a frightful perspective on gun deaths in America, The New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof asserted in 2015 that, &ldquo;More Americans have died from guns in the United States since 1968 than on battlefields of all the wars in American history.&rdquo; &nbsp;This statistic has been verified more than once by PolitiFact.

The Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit organization that keeps track of gun violence in America, not only provides a sad commentary on the senseless loss of lives from gun violence, but its records also demonstrate why Kristof&rsquo;s astute observation will stay true for the foreseeable future in America. Studies show a direct correlation between gun ownership and gun-related injuries and deaths. In an analysis of gun ownership across 50 US states, those with more guns tend to have more gun-related deaths. In a similar study of developed countries, America, which has 42% of civilian-owned guns in the world, stands in a league of its own when it comes to gun-related deaths in comparison with countries like Japan, UK and the Netherlands, where gun ownership is low.

I have unequivocally stated that guns have no place in a civilized society, and that America has to engage in a debate on the relevance of the Second Amendment rather than gun control. In the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, it is alarming to see the dialogue shift toward the arming of teachers and school staff.

Armed Teachers? 

During the Republican primaries, President Donald Trump opined that the country&rsquo;s response to gun violence ought to be more civilians with guns. &ldquo;I am a Second Amendment person,&rdquo; Trump said. &ldquo;If we had guns in California on the other side where the bullets went in the different direction, you wouldn&rsquo;t have 14 or 15 people dead right now. If even in Paris, if they had guns on the other side going in the opposite direction, you wouldn&rsquo;t have 130 people plus dead.&rdquo;

America&rsquo;s delusional president wants to turn the entire country into a war zone, including schools, which are a gun-free zone today. Despite strong evidence that more guns would mean more gun-related deaths, Trump loves the idea of &ldquo;bullets going in the other direction&rdquo; and believes in the myth that more good guys with guns ought to be the nation&rsquo;s answer to mass shootings. At a White House meeting on school safety, Trump stated that &ldquo;certain highly adept people, people who understand weaponry and guns,&rdquo; ought to be allowed to carry guns inside schools. He is not talking about soldiers or mercenaries, but about teachers. The president went as far as to suggest that teachers willing to carry guns should be paid bonuses.

Not surprisingly, Trump&rsquo;s repeated call to arm teachers drew mixed reactions after the shooting in Parkland, Florida. The National Rifle Association (NRA) and some teachers are in favor of Trump&rsquo;s call to arms, while many teachers&rsquo; unions, parents and educators have overwhelmingly rejected the idea. As with any aspect of the gun debate, the nation is polarized on the topic of arming schoolteachers. The strong divide was amply evident in Florida lawmakers&rsquo; knee-jerk response to the Parkland shooting.&nbsp;

Reacting to the school shooting, Florida passed a bill on March 7 that has a provision for additional funding for arming school staff. While the bill has positive aspects, including raising the minimum age to purchase firearms, a three-day waiting period and restrictions on the sale of assault-style weapons, it also includes the provision to arm school teachers. Florida&rsquo;s Senate narrowly passed a modified version of the bill to create a school marshal program with the additional funding earmarked for arming non-teaching school staff. Defying the NRA, Florida Governor Rick Scott, a self-professed proponent of common-sense gun laws, signed the bill into law on March 9. The final scene will play out in the federal court where the NRA has filed a lawsuit contesting that the new Florida law violates the Second Amendment constitutional rights of people under the age of 21 to bear arms.

Watershed Moment

Taking the step of arming school staff will, unfortunately, negate the benefits of other aspects of Florida&rsquo;s rnew law. Schools are a place of learning. They are sacred institutions that impart knowledge to students. Nelson Mandela believed that &ldquo;Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.&rdquo; Teachers have the unenviable job of shaping the next generation of responsible citizens, creating in them a desire to learn and equipping them with the skills needed to change the world for the better.

Teachers are referred to in Sanskrit as gurus. A guru is a revered mentor who enlightens the minds of students and molds their values. A guru dispels the darkness that is ignorance by guiding students to the path of knowledge and wisdom. It is inconceivable that the very fabric of what a place of learning ought to be is getting ripped apart by the ill-conceived ideas of the most pedestrian president America has seen in recent times. With school marshals, armed school staff and teachers, America will create an indelible image in the impressionable minds of its young learners that guns and violence they bring are a normal way of life. In the process of making violence the norm in society, America is failing in its duties as a nation to nurture its next generation.

The year 2018 has the potential to be a watershed moment in the war against guns in America. Drawing the wrath of the NRA, retailers like Dick&rsquo;s Sporting Goods, Walmart and Kroger have taken a stand and stoped selling assault-style rifles and guns to anyone under the age of 21, federal and state laws notwithstanding. Students are taking to the streets and staging protests against gun violence. Even a Republican governor with an A+ rating in the NRA&rsquo;s grading system took the unexpected step of signing into law a gun-control bill that might improve Florida&rsquo;s standing with the Giffords Law Center.

With the midterm elections looming in November, 2018 can and should become a referendum on where America stands on guns today and how much power the NRA wields in American politics.&nbsp;

*S. Suresh is a product executive with more than 25 years of experience in enterprise software.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By arming teachers, America will cause lasting damage in a society already rife with gun violence.

By S. Suresh* It is not easy to write about gun violence and gun-related deaths in America. Even before the ink is dry, more shootings will bring more deaths somewhere in the country. As I wrote this article, the nation had to contend with the heartbreaking loss of the lives of three women at the hands of a gunman in the small town of Yountville, California. Presenting a frightful perspective on gun deaths in America, The New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof asserted in 2015 that, “More Americans have died from guns in the United States since 1968 than on battlefields of all the wars in American history.” This statistic has been verified more than once by PolitiFact. The Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit organization that keeps track of gun violence in America, not only provides a sad commentary on the senseless loss of lives from gun violence, but its records also demonstrate why Kristof’s astute observation will stay true for the foreseeable future in America. Studies show a direct correlation between gun ownership and gun-related injuries and deaths. In an analysis of gun ownership across 50 US states, those with more guns tend to have more gun-related deaths. In a similar study of developed countries, America, which has 42% of civilian-owned guns in the world, stands in a league of its own when it comes to gun-related deaths in comparison with countries like Japan, UK and the Netherlands, where gun ownership is low. I have unequivocally stated that guns have no place in a civilized society, and that America has to engage in a debate on the relevance of the Second Amendment rather than gun control. In the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, it is alarming to see the dialogue shift toward the arming of teachers and school staff. Armed Teachers? During the Republican primaries, President Donald Trump opined that the country’s response to gun violence ought to be more civilians with guns. “I am a Second Amendment person,” Trump said. “If we had guns in California on the other side where the bullets went in the different direction, you wouldn’t have 14 or 15 people dead right now. If even in Paris, if they had guns on the other side going in the opposite direction, you wouldn’t have 130 people plus dead.” America’s delusional president wants to turn the entire country into a war zone, including schools, which are a gun-free zone today. Despite strong evidence that more guns would mean more gun-related deaths, Trump loves the idea of “bullets going in the other direction” and believes in the myth that more good guys with guns ought to be the nation’s answer to mass shootings. At a White House meeting on school safety, Trump stated that “certain highly adept people, people who understand weaponry and guns,” ought to be allowed to carry guns inside schools. He is not talking about soldiers or mercenaries, but about teachers. The president went as far as to suggest that teachers willing to carry guns should be paid bonuses. Not surprisingly, Trump’s repeated call to arm teachers drew mixed reactions after the shooting in Parkland, Florida. The National Rifle Association (NRA) and some teachers are in favor of Trump’s call to arms, while many teachers’ unions, parents and educators have overwhelmingly rejected the idea. As with any aspect of the gun debate, the nation is polarized on the topic of arming schoolteachers. The strong divide was amply evident in Florida lawmakers’ knee-jerk response to the Parkland shooting. Reacting to the school shooting, Florida passed a bill on March 7 that has a provision for additional funding for arming school staff. While the bill has positive aspects, including raising the minimum age to purchase firearms, a three-day waiting period and restrictions on the sale of assault-style weapons, it also includes the provision to arm school teachers. Florida’s Senate narrowly passed a modified version of the bill to create a school marshal program with the additional funding earmarked for arming non-teaching school staff. Defying the NRA, Florida Governor Rick Scott, a self-professed proponent of common-sense gun laws, signed the bill into law on March 9. The final scene will play out in the federal court where the NRA has filed a lawsuit contesting that the new Florida law violates the Second Amendment constitutional rights of people under the age of 21 to bear arms. Watershed Moment Taking the step of arming school staff will, unfortunately, negate the benefits of other aspects of Florida’s rnew law. Schools are a place of learning. They are sacred institutions that impart knowledge to students. Nelson Mandela believed that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Teachers have the unenviable job of shaping the next generation of responsible citizens, creating in them a desire to learn and equipping them with the skills needed to change the world for the better. Teachers are referred to in Sanskrit as gurus. A guru is a revered mentor who enlightens the minds of students and molds their values. A guru dispels the darkness that is ignorance by guiding students to the path of knowledge and wisdom. It is inconceivable that the very fabric of what a place of learning ought to be is getting ripped apart by the ill-conceived ideas of the most pedestrian president America has seen in recent times. With school marshals, armed school staff and teachers, America will create an indelible image in the impressionable minds of its young learners that guns and violence they bring are a normal way of life. In the process of making violence the norm in society, America is failing in its duties as a nation to nurture its next generation. The year 2018 has the potential to be a watershed moment in the war against guns in America. Drawing the wrath of the NRA, retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart and Kroger have taken a stand and stoped selling assault-style rifles and guns to anyone under the age of 21, federal and state laws notwithstanding. Students are taking to the streets and staging protests against gun violence. Even a Republican governor with an A+ rating in the NRA’s grading system took the unexpected step of signing into law a gun-control bill that might improve Florida’s standing with the Giffords Law Center. With the midterm elections looming in November, 2018 can and should become a referendum on where America stands on guns today and how much power the NRA wields in American politics. *S. Suresh is a product executive with more than 25 years of experience in enterprise software. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Aimee Huff, Michelle Barnhart*&nbsp;

President Donald Trump&rsquo;s proposal to arm teachers has sparked substantial public debate.

As researchers of consumer culture and lead authors of a recent study of how Americans use and view firearms for self-defense, we argue that while carrying a gun may reduce the risk of being powerless during an attack, it also introduces substantial and overlooked risks to the carrier and others.

Where bullets land

One of the biggest risks involved with arming teachers would be missing the target &ndash; literally. Despite the fact that police must undergo extensive professional training, particularly for high-pressure situations, one study notes that police involved in gunfights shoot with an accuracy rate of just 18 percent.

Assuming teachers can achieve the same level of accuracy as police, and that an armed teacher were able to get into position to fire, just one in five or six bullets would hit the shooter. The other four or five bullets would hit something or someone else. While an armed and trained teacher may be able to stop a shooter, the teacher may also shoot an innocent person.

Why might they miss the target?

Our recent study about people who keep and use handguns for self-defense can help to explain why someone using a gun against an attacker has difficulty hitting their target.

Over 24 months, the research team monitored 6,879 threads in four online discussion forums focused on armed self-defense. One author completed concealed handgun license training. Two contributing authors attended the annual NRA convention. The lead authors attended two gun shows, and interviewed two police officers and nine civilians who keep and/or carry handguns for self-defense.

Individuals in our study expressed concern about effectively using their training during an actual event. They spoke of the possibility of &ldquo;freezing up&rdquo; or clumsily drawing their weapons. Many, including police and military personnel, acknowledge that the fear and chaos caused by a threatening situation produce involuntary physical responses, such as a racing heart and loss of fine motor skills. They believe these responses could impede their ability to accurately fire and could expose themselves and bystanders to the risk of being shot. They engaged in regular rehearsals in an attempt to address these concerns.

Individuals in our study note other risks of using a gun for self-defense, such as mistaking an innocent person for an assailant or being targeted by an assailant who sees that you are armed. Indeed, if arming teachers becomes commonplace, shooters may target teachers first, further decreasing teachers&rsquo; firing ability and accuracy.

We contend that other factors could inhibit teachers from effectively using their firearms training. The majority of shooters at high school and middle school incidents are current students. Recognizing the shooter as a student could emotionally inhibit a well-intentioned teacher from rapidly and accurately firing at him. Individuals in our study describe their reluctance to respond with firepower because they worry about being mistaken for assailants by law enforcement who respond to the scene. In the case of teachers, this fear could further inhibit them from engaging in a firefight.&nbsp;

The day-to-day risks of arming teachers

Our findings show that handgun owners perceive a host of other physical, legal, psychological and moral risks associated with day-to-day preparedness for armed self-defense. These risks include unnecessarily drawing or firing in a moment of fear or someone taking their gun to injure others. However, handgun owners express a willingness to accept these risks as a trade-off for decreasing their risk of being victimized.

Teachers who carry firearms would assume a variety of similar day-to-day risks. For instance, armed teachers could unintentionally discharge their firearm or have their guns taken by an angry student while trying to break-up a fight. The potential for having their gun taken is very real. Research on shootings that took place in hospital emergency departments shows that 23 percent involve a gun that is taken from an armed security guard.

Reducing these day-to-day risks is taxing on individuals. Our data show that carrying a firearm responsibly involves continuous awareness of the weapon and the situation, understanding complex laws around self-defense, and mental preparedness to end a human life if necessary. More than half of the concealed carry license holders we interviewed and dozens of online discussants stated that they sometimes leave their firearms at home to avoid the burden of having to maintain this mindset.

Based on this finding, we assert that carrying a firearm would be equally taxing on teachers, if not more since they also must engage in the duties of their profession.&nbsp;

Do the benefits outweigh the risks?

Despite the widespread news coverage of mass shootings at schools, the reality is that school shootings are still a rare occurrence. In an FBI study of 160 active shooter incidents that FBI identified between 2000 and 2013, 27 &ndash; or about 17 percent &ndash; occurred at elementary, middle and high schools. Given that rarity, the challenges of effectively using a gun to neutralize a shooter without taking additional lives and added day-to-day risks, we argue that Trump&rsquo;s proposal would not be effective in making schools safer overall for teachers or students.

It is difficult to address the question of whether, in the moment of a school shooting, the presence of an armed teacher is preferable to an unarmed one.

At least eight states currently permit teachers and school staff to carry firearms. However, the small percentage of schools with armed personnel combined with the small percentage of schools experiencing mass shootings limits the opportunity for a quantitative study of the risks and benefits of arming teachers. A recent review of the available data on the effectiveness of armed security and school resource officers in deterring or responding to a school shooting was inconclusive.

One of the most compelling findings comes from the same FBI report that found between 2000 and 2013, it was unarmed civilians that stopped more active shooter events than armed civilians &ndash; 13.1 percent versus 3.1 percent, respectively. &ldquo;Of note, 11 of the incidents involved unarmed principals, teachers, other school staff and students who confronted shooters to end the threat (9 of those shooters were students),&rdquo; the report states.

This shows arming teachers isn&rsquo;t the only way to stop active shooters at schools. Often active school shooters are stopped by unarmed educators with the will to act.

* Michelle Barnhart is an Associate Professor of Marketing, Oregon State University

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

While an armed and trained teacher may be able to stop a shooter, the teacher may also shoot an innocent person.

By Aimee Huff, Michelle Barnhart* President Donald Trump’s proposal to arm teachers has sparked substantial public debate. As researchers of consumer culture and lead authors of a recent study of how Americans use and view firearms for self-defense, we argue that while carrying a gun may reduce the risk of being powerless during an attack, it also introduces substantial and overlooked risks to the carrier and others. Where bullets land One of the biggest risks involved with arming teachers would be missing the target – literally. Despite the fact that police must undergo extensive professional training, particularly for high-pressure situations, one study notes that police involved in gunfights shoot with an accuracy rate of just 18 percent. Assuming teachers can achieve the same level of accuracy as police, and that an armed teacher were able to get into position to fire, just one in five or six bullets would hit the shooter. The other four or five bullets would hit something or someone else. While an armed and trained teacher may be able to stop a shooter, the teacher may also shoot an innocent person. Why might they miss the target? Our recent study about people who keep and use handguns for self-defense can help to explain why someone using a gun against an attacker has difficulty hitting their target. Over 24 months, the research team monitored 6,879 threads in four online discussion forums focused on armed self-defense. One author completed concealed handgun license training. Two contributing authors attended the annual NRA convention. The lead authors attended two gun shows, and interviewed two police officers and nine civilians who keep and/or carry handguns for self-defense. Individuals in our study expressed concern about effectively using their training during an actual event. They spoke of the possibility of “freezing up” or clumsily drawing their weapons. Many, including police and military personnel, acknowledge that the fear and chaos caused by a threatening situation produce involuntary physical responses, such as a racing heart and loss of fine motor skills. They believe these responses could impede their ability to accurately fire and could expose themselves and bystanders to the risk of being shot. They engaged in regular rehearsals in an attempt to address these concerns. Individuals in our study note other risks of using a gun for self-defense, such as mistaking an innocent person for an assailant or being targeted by an assailant who sees that you are armed. Indeed, if arming teachers becomes commonplace, shooters may target teachers first, further decreasing teachers’ firing ability and accuracy. We contend that other factors could inhibit teachers from effectively using their firearms training. The majority of shooters at high school and middle school incidents are current students. Recognizing the shooter as a student could emotionally inhibit a well-intentioned teacher from rapidly and accurately firing at him. Individuals in our study describe their reluctance to respond with firepower because they worry about being mistaken for assailants by law enforcement who respond to the scene. In the case of teachers, this fear could further inhibit them from engaging in a firefight. The day-to-day risks of arming teachers Our findings show that handgun owners perceive a host of other physical, legal, psychological and moral risks associated with day-to-day preparedness for armed self-defense. These risks include unnecessarily drawing or firing in a moment of fear or someone taking their gun to injure others. However, handgun owners express a willingness to accept these risks as a trade-off for decreasing their risk of being victimized. Teachers who carry firearms would assume a variety of similar day-to-day risks. For instance, armed teachers could unintentionally discharge their firearm or have their guns taken by an angry student while trying to break-up a fight. The potential for having their gun taken is very real. Research on shootings that took place in hospital emergency departments shows that 23 percent involve a gun that is taken from an armed security guard. Reducing these day-to-day risks is taxing on individuals. Our data show that carrying a firearm responsibly involves continuous awareness of the weapon and the situation, understanding complex laws around self-defense, and mental preparedness to end a human life if necessary. More than half of the concealed carry license holders we interviewed and dozens of online discussants stated that they sometimes leave their firearms at home to avoid the burden of having to maintain this mindset. Based on this finding, we assert that carrying a firearm would be equally taxing on teachers, if not more since they also must engage in the duties of their profession. Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Despite the widespread news coverage of mass shootings at schools, the reality is that school shootings are still a rare occurrence. In an FBI study of 160 active shooter incidents that FBI identified between 2000 and 2013, 27 – or about 17 percent – occurred at elementary, middle and high schools. Given that rarity, the challenges of effectively using a gun to neutralize a shooter without taking additional lives and added day-to-day risks, we argue that Trump’s proposal would not be effective in making schools safer overall for teachers or students. It is difficult to address the question of whether, in the moment of a school shooting, the presence of an armed teacher is preferable to an unarmed one. At least eight states currently permit teachers and school staff to carry firearms. However, the small percentage of schools with armed personnel combined with the small percentage of schools experiencing mass shootings limits the opportunity for a quantitative study of the risks and benefits of arming teachers. A recent review of the available data on the effectiveness of armed security and school resource officers in deterring or responding to a school shooting was inconclusive. One of the most compelling findings comes from the same FBI report that found between 2000 and 2013, it was unarmed civilians that stopped more active shooter events than armed civilians – 13.1 percent versus 3.1 percent, respectively. “Of note, 11 of the incidents involved unarmed principals, teachers, other school staff and students who confronted shooters to end the threat (9 of those shooters were students),” the report states. This shows arming teachers isn’t the only way to stop active shooters at schools. Often active school shooters are stopped by unarmed educators with the will to act. * Michelle Barnhart is an Associate Professor of Marketing, Oregon State University (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why Trump's idea to arm teachers may miss the mark?

An Indian-origin school principal, who was forced to withdraw a ban on wearing of hijab by young girls after vitriolic abuse on social media, today received crucial support of a UK minister who said bullying or intimidation of school staff was completely unacceptable.

Schools that try to ban hijabs or fasting will receive government support if they face a backlash, the minister has pledged.

Lord Theodore Agnew, Minister for schools systems, faith and counter-extremism in education, also said that schools in the country were completely within their right to make decisions on how to run their institutions in the best interests of their pupils.

Neena Lall, an Indian-origin principal of the St Stephen&#39;s Primary School in east London,&nbsp;had publicly apologised to parents at the school after facing backlash and criticism on social media and&nbsp;calling the decision a &ldquo;huge error in judgment&rdquo;.

Lall blamed the media for inflammatory reporting of the hijab ban last month, which staff members said was to help the youngest girls move freely in PE lessons and outdoor learning.

The school&rsquo;s decision provoked controversy after it was reported as an effort to aid integration. The school swiftly backtracked a week later, overturning the ban on criticism from parents and local councilors over a lack of consultation.

Later, she withdrew the decision.&nbsp;

A governor at the school, Arif Qawi, resigned amid the stiff opposition and had urged the UK government to spell out school uniform policies more clearly. The minister also threw his support behind schools in the country that want to impose a ban on wearing of hijab or religious fasting by very young pupils.

&quot;They are completely within their right to make decisions on how to run their schools in the best interests of their pupils&nbsp;in line with the law and in discussion with parents, of course, and we back their right to do so,&quot; Agnew wrote in &#39;The Times&#39; in reference to Lall.

&quot;St Stephen&#39;s Primary School in east London has been at the centre of media attention after its ban on young pupils wearing the hijab and?fasting during Ramadan. I have seen the vitriolic abuse on social media after this decision and read of the intimidation of staff, resulting in the resignation of the chairman of governors...I wanted to send out a clear message: bullying or intimidation of school staff is completely unacceptable,&quot; he wrote.

The minister responsible for counter-extremism in the Department for Education said the government would not allow a &quot;culture of fear and intimidation to pass through the school gates&quot; and that any opposition to decisions by a school&#39;s governing body should manifest itself in the form of sensible, informed discussion and not hateful online reaction.&quot;

&quot;School leaders must have the right to set?school?uniform policies in a way that they see fit, in order to promote cohesion,&quot; Amanda Spielman, the head of Ofsted, had said. 
Under the UK&#39;s Department for Education guidelines, uniform policy is a matter for individual head-teachers and their governing bodies. But Agnew offered the government&#39;s support to individual schools that may find themselves in a bind.

&quot;We want to do all we can to help schools on sensitive issues, such as those thrown up by this case, and we will be working closely with school leaders and sector organisations on how we can support them,&quot; the minister said.

He also warned schools in the country against &quot;promoting religious ideologies that undermine British values&quot; and said the government was prepared to take action against any form of discrimination in the classroom.

&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

Lord Theodore Agnew, Minister for schools systems, faith and counter-extremism in education, also said that schools in the country were completely within their right to make decisions on how to run their institutions in the best interests of their pupils

An Indian-origin school principal, who was forced to withdraw a ban on wearing of hijab by young girls after vitriolic abuse on social media, today received crucial support of a UK minister who said bullying or intimidation of school staff was completely unacceptable. Schools that try to ban hijabs or fasting will receive government support if they face a backlash, the minister has pledged. Lord Theodore Agnew, Minister for schools systems, faith and counter-extremism in education, also said that schools in the country were completely within their right to make decisions on how to run their institutions in the best interests of their pupils. Neena Lall, an Indian-origin principal of the St Stephen's Primary School in east London, had publicly apologised to parents at the school after facing backlash and criticism on social media and calling the decision a “huge error in judgment”. Lall blamed the media for inflammatory reporting of the hijab ban last month, which staff members said was to help the youngest girls move freely in PE lessons and outdoor learning. The school’s decision provoked controversy after it was reported as an effort to aid integration. The school swiftly backtracked a week later, overturning the ban on criticism from parents and local councilors over a lack of consultation. Later, she withdrew the decision. A governor at the school, Arif Qawi, resigned amid the stiff opposition and had urged the UK government to spell out school uniform policies more clearly. The minister also threw his support behind schools in the country that want to impose a ban on wearing of hijab or religious fasting by very young pupils. "They are completely within their right to make decisions on how to run their schools in the best interests of their pupils in line with the law and in discussion with parents, of course, and we back their right to do so," Agnew wrote in 'The Times' in reference to Lall. "St Stephen's Primary School in east London has been at the centre of media attention after its ban on young pupils wearing the hijab and?fasting during Ramadan. I have seen the vitriolic abuse on social media after this decision and read of the intimidation of staff, resulting in the resignation of the chairman of governors...I wanted to send out a clear message: bullying or intimidation of school staff is completely unacceptable," he wrote. The minister responsible for counter-extremism in the Department for Education said the government would not allow a "culture of fear and intimidation to pass through the school gates" and that any opposition to decisions by a school's governing body should manifest itself in the form of sensible, informed discussion and not hateful online reaction." "School leaders must have the right to set?school?uniform policies in a way that they see fit, in order to promote cohesion," Amanda Spielman, the head of Ofsted, had said. Under the UK's Department for Education guidelines, uniform policy is a matter for individual head-teachers and their governing bodies. But Agnew offered the government's support to individual schools that may find themselves in a bind. "We want to do all we can to help schools on sensitive issues, such as those thrown up by this case, and we will be working closely with school leaders and sector organisations on how we can support them," the minister said. He also warned schools in the country against "promoting religious ideologies that undermine British values" and said the government was prepared to take action against any form of discrimination in the classroom. (With PTI inputs)

UK minister backs Indian-origin school principal to ban hijab in schools

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