The Odisha state government has announced firm measures to penalize schools that fail to comply with the summer holiday directive issued in response to the ongoing heatwave. The order, which was initially rolled out last month, mandated the closure of all educational institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff during extreme temperatures.
In a directive issued on Thursday, Durga Prasad Mohapatra, Additional Chief Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, urged District Education Officers (DEOs) to strictly enforce the summer holiday order. “Despite clear instructions, reports have emerged indicating that some schools are continuing operations, defying the government’s directive,” Mohapatra stated in the letter.
The Odisha government declared a state-wide holiday for all educational institutions on April 22, 2025, in response to the severe heat wave affecting the region. However, reports have surfaced suggesting that several schools across districts have ignored the order, prompting the Department of Higher Education to issue a stern reminder to all institutions.
In the latest development, Mohapatra underscored that the summer vacation closure is mandatory for all schools within the Department’s jurisdiction. “District Education Officers have been instructed to take immediate and stringent action against any schools found in violation of the directive,” he said.
The Department has emphasized its ongoing surveillance of the situation and reiterated its expectation for full compliance from educational authorities. “We urge all schools to cooperate fully to protect the health and well-being of both students and staff during this period of intense heat,” Mohapatra added.
As the heatwave continues to grip the state, the government remains committed to ensuring that educational institutions adhere to the guidelines to safeguard public health.
