I am writing to express my concern about the well-being of school children during the cold spell and to propose a temporary measure that could significantly contribute to their safety. As the temperature drops, it becomes increasingly challenging for students to navigate to and from school in extreme cold weather conditions.
In light of this, I propose a thoughtful consideration for temporary school closures during periods of severe cold. This would not only prioritise the safety of our children but also mitigate the risks associated with exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Extreme cold weather poses significant health risks, including pneumonia, especially for young children who may not be adequately dressed for such conditions. By temporarily closing schools during severe cold snaps, we can reduce the likelihood of students being exposed to these dangers.
In many rural areas students have to go to school on foot. During severe cold weather, it is very unsafe. Closing schools temporarily would alleviate the pressure on families to navigate through hazardous conditions, ensuring the safety of both students and their caregivers.
Not all families have the means to provide their children with adequate winter clothing or reliable transportation during extreme cold. Temporarily closing schools would ensure that every child, regardless of their family's socioeconomic status, is protected from the potential harm caused by severe weather conditions.
While I understand that closing schools is not a decision to be taken lightly, I believe that the short-term inconvenience is a small price to pay for the long-term safety and well-being of our children. I hope district-wise education authorities, school committees and parents will engage in a thoughtful dialogue on this matter, exploring ways to ensure the protection of our most vulnerable members in our family during the harsh winter months.
Nahida Nishi, mother of two school-going children, Dhaka.