DMP order on school timing

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The Dhaka metropolitan police recently passed an order that the schools in the metropolis should start their classes at 7.30 in the morning during the Ramadan time. The order from the DMP was issued for, what it said, easing the traffic jam during the office hours in the month.

The DMP has the authority to order and may have certain logic behind this. But is it a right one? Just think about the kids of elementary levels or very junior classes. If the class starts at 7.30, a student needs to reach the school by 7.15. So they would need to wake up at 6 a.m. This routine is suitable for those who reside near the schools. Those who reside in areas far from their schools would be facing a tough time.

I talked to a principal of a school at Dhanmandi. He said some of his students come from Savar, Uttara, Tongi, Mirpur and Demra. If they want to attend the class at 7.30, they need to start from their houses at least by 6 a.m. and so they need to wake up from bed at 5 a.m. Is it possible or is it justified?

Their parents will not get time to say their Fazr prayer after sehri if the order is implemented.

We think those who have decided the school timing are totally divorced from the ground realities. If the schools are forced to implement this order, it is not only the schools, but also the students, some of whom are even toddlers, and guardians would be made to suffer.

Ahmed Reza

Dhanmandi R/A

Dhaka