Keep morning assembly brief, devise alternative indoor games for physical activities: DSEK issues SoPs for schools

Posted by admin_kas on 2025-05-22 22:13:42 |

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'Health and well being of students, staff paramount in view of Heat Wave and increasing frequency of afternoon Stormy Winds'

Muhammad Adnan

Srinagar, May 22: In a latest development, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) with the instructions to the schools to keep the morning Assembly brief and devise alternative indoor games for students.

The SoPs have been issued in view of the heat wave and the increasing frequency of afternoon stormy winds across Kashmir.

"In view of the prevailing heat wave and the increasing frequency of afternoon stormy winds across Kashmir, it has become imperative to implement effective safety protocols to safeguard the health and well being of the students and staff in schools," DSEK circular reads.

It reads that proactive measures were essential to mitigate the risks associated with extreme weather conditions.

"Morning assembly should be kept brief and conducted in a shaded area or indoors if possible. Emphasis should be on essential announcements rather than prolonged drills or speeches," it reads.

As per the Sops, the schools have been asked to keep all outdoor games, sports activities and physical education classes before 10:30 am including any form of break period where students might be inclined to play outdoors.

The DSEK in its circular has instructed the schools that outdoor activities must be conducted before 10:30 AM "if absolutely necessary" and students must be given hydration breaks for 15 to 20 minutes.

"Schools should ensure availability of potable drinking water at multiple accessible points," it reads.

The DSEK has stressed strict supervision by Physical Education teachers and staff to monitor students for signs of heat- (dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, headache, fatigue.

"The schools should reduce the intensity and duration of physical activity must be significantly reduced. Focus should be on less strenuous activities and schools must devise alternative indoor activities for physical education games," the DSEK circular reads.

The schools have been further instructed to make water coolers functional and should be regularly cleaned.

"Students should be encouraged to carry their own water bottles and refill them frequently. Teachers should periodically remind students to drink water," it reads.

The schools have been asked to provide 10 minutes break to students after every class while the classrooms be adequately ventilated and all fans should be in working order.

"School buses should install multiple small fans for enhanced cooling and ventilation and be parked in shaded areas and parking sheds, wherever possible," it reads.

The DSEK in a circular has stressed use of curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight. "Air coolers may be considered for common areas or sick rooms. The first aid kit of school must be well-stocked with necessary medicines for heat-related illnesses," DSEK circular reads.

With reference to the preparedness for afternoon stormy winds, the schools have been instructed to secure outdoor structures.

"Ensure all outdoor structures, hoardings, temporary sheds, and lightweight objects are properly secured or removed to prevent them from becoming projectiles in strong winds," it reads.

It reads that all windows and doors in classrooms and school buildings must be securely latched before students and staff leave the premises.

"School authorities must inspect the premises for weak or overhanging tree branches that could pose a risk during strong winds and take necessary action for pruning or removal," it reads.

The DSEK has sought cooperation of all school authorities, staff, parents, and students to ensure safe learning environment during these "challenging weather" conditions.

"These measures are temporary and will be reviewed and revised as the weather conditions improve," the circular reads.