Keeping schools open

The UNICEF has urged governments across the world to keep schools open, despite the spread of Omicron variant of Covid-19. The UN agency said that some 616 million children have already been affected by full or partial school closures in the world. We know that the mitigation measures help keep schools open and the investments in digital connectivity could ensure that no child is left behind. But, there is ultimately no alternative to returning to school by way of the students' physical presence. It will prevent the huge dropout.

The UNICEF's call is a rational one. As vaccination is going on and necessary health protocols have also been developed over the year, everyone now knows what to do to fight the infection. It is the responsibility of every citizen to follow the health protocol. It is also the government's responsibility to ensure maximum implementation of health safety measures with close monitoring. Inefficiencies and laziness of the relevant authorities and departments in this regard should not be allowed. The cost of such lethargy is very high. Future generation must not be the victim of irresponsible behaviour of some people. The government of Bangladesh needs to consider the call by the UN agency seriously.

Md Selim

Chashara, Narayanganj