UAE: Hybrid learning to continue in Indian schools

Dubai - India’s CBSE-affiliated schools’ to start new academic session on April 4.

Uncertainty looms large whether the new academic session that starts on April 4 for India’s Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)-affiliated schools will see greater footfall on campus owing to the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic.

Several polls conducted by institutions indicate that parents’ confidence to send their wards has visibly increased, albeit, on paper.

Schools continue to encourage parents to send their wards for on-campus learning reiterating that onsite teaching has tangible advantages that cannot be undermined.

But despite the aggressive vaccination drive, many parents argue that as children are still not eligible to take the Covid-19 jab, face-to-face learning is still a deterrent.

However, teachers exuded optimism about the upcoming academic session.

Deepika Thapar-Singh, chief executive officer (CEO)-Principal of Credence High School, said, “Prior to the opening of the school we have taken a survey/registration to understand the choice of mode of learning for each child. We’re happy to share that more than 50 per cent of children will come for face-to-face learning. which is a huge jump from the previous session.”

Sangita Chima, Principal, Amity School Dubai, echoed Thapar-Singh. “An astounding 65 per cent of Amity School Dubai pupils will enjoy a joyous ride to school this coming Sunday. Many will be coming to school for the first time after an entire year. We’ve increased the number of school buses in our fleet and stringent safety mechanisms are in place.”

But many school authorities shared mixed responses in the surveys, as several parents are in favour of remote learning because of the raging contagion.

Punit MK Vasu, CEO, The Indian High Group of Schools, said, “Since the numbers of Covid-19 positive cases have risen, many parents and pupils are concerned about the viral outbreak. However, we’re open to whatever our parents choose. We’re confident that irrespective of whether we’ve more students learning from campus or home, we’ll ensure that learning must be persistent and all-encompassing. We let the parents choose what they feel is best for their child. The school values their choice and is prepared on all fronts to handle both distance and face-to-face learning efficiently.”

Schools are also encouraging pupils, aged 16 and above, to get vaccinated in a bid to ensure those in senior Grades could opt for on-campus learning.