KARNATAKA GOVERNMENT UNVEILS STRINGENT COVID-19 GUIDELINES FOR SCHOOL REOPENING
With the academic year set to commence in June, the Karnataka government has introduced a comprehensive set of new COVID-19 guidelines for schools, aiming to safeguard students, teachers, and staff amid a noticeable uptick in cases across the state. The move, announced after a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on May 26, 2025, comes as Karnataka recorded over 360 new cases since January and three fatalities, including one as recently as May 25. The guidelines, applicable to both government and private schools, reflect a proactive approach to prevent outbreaks as educational institutions prepare to reopen their doors.
The Karnataka government’s decision to issue new COVID-19 guidelines for schools is rooted in the lessons learned from previous pandemic waves. Officials have acknowledged that while vaccination rates are high among adults, children—especially those under 12—remain a vulnerable group. The guidelines thus emphasize not only symptom monitoring but also the importance of vaccination for eligible students and staff, encouraging parents to ensure their children are up to date with all recommended immunizations.
School administrators are being trained to recognize early signs of infection and implement isolation protocols swiftly. This includes designating specific rooms for temporary isolation and maintaining a log of symptomatic cases. The government has also directed schools to establish a direct line of communication with local health authorities for immediate reporting and consultation.
To minimize crowding, schools have been advised to stagger entry and exit times, as well as lunch breaks. Assemblies and large gatherings are discouraged, and when unavoidable, must be conducted outdoors with adequate spacing. Classroom seating arrangements are being reconfigured to maintain physical distancing, and windows are to be kept open whenever possible to improve ventilation.
The Karnataka government has reiterated that the ultimate goal is to keep schools open and functioning safely. Authorities believe that in-person learning is essential for students’ academic progress and social development, and every effort is being made to prevent disruptions while prioritizing health and safety.
EARLY DETECTION AND ISOLATION: THE CORNERSTONE OF SCHOOL SAFETY
One of the most significant elements of the new directive is the emphasis on early detection and isolation of symptomatic students and staff. The government has made it clear: children exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, or cold should not be sent to school under any circumstances. Parents have been strongly advised to keep symptomatic children at home and seek prompt medical attention. Only after a full recovery, and with no lingering symptoms, will students be permitted to return to school.
Schools are required to closely monitor all students daily. If a child develops symptoms during school hours, staff must immediately isolate the student and notify parents without delay, ensuring the child is sent home as soon as possible. The same protocol applies to teachers and non-teaching staff, who are urged to stay away from school if they feel unwell. This vigilant approach is designed to minimize the risk of in-school transmission and ensure rapid response to any suspected cases.
Teachers are being provided with updated training on COVID-19 protocols, including the correct use of masks, hand hygiene, and how to handle suspected cases. The Education Department has also distributed posters and pamphlets outlining the new guidelines, which are displayed prominently in school corridors and classrooms.
Parents are playing a crucial role in the new safety regime. They are required to submit daily health declarations for their children, confirming the absence of symptoms before the child leaves for school. The government has set up a helpline for parents to report concerns or seek advice if their child develops symptoms at home.
Special attention is being given to students with underlying health conditions. Schools have been instructed to maintain confidential records of such students and to offer flexible attendance options or remote learning if needed. Medical rooms are being stocked with essential supplies, including thermometers, sanitizers, and basic first-aid kits.
STRICT ENFORCEMENT OF COVID-19 APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR (CAB)
The Karnataka Health Department’s guidelines go beyond symptom monitoring, mandating the strict enforcement of COVID-19 Appropriate Behaviour (CAB) within all school premises. This includes regular handwashing with soap or sanitizer, maintaining respiratory hygiene, wearing masks where necessary, and promoting cleanliness in classrooms, restrooms, and common areas. School authorities are expected to ensure that these preventive measures are followed rigorously by students, teachers, and staff.
The guidelines also address the psychological impact of the pandemic on students. School counselors are available to support children experiencing anxiety or stress related to COVID-19 or the disruption of regular routines. Awareness sessions and peer support groups are being encouraged to foster resilience and a sense of community among students.
Regular cleaning and disinfection protocols have been intensified. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, desks, and railings are cleaned multiple times a day. Restrooms are sanitized frequently, and handwashing stations have been installed at strategic locations throughout school campuses.
The government is working closely with local municipal bodies to ensure a steady supply of water and sanitation facilities. In rural areas, special grants have been allocated to upgrade infrastructure and provide schools with necessary hygiene materials. Mobile health teams are on standby to visit schools in case of suspected outbreaks.
RISING CASES AND NEW VARIANTS: THE CONTEXT FOR GUIDELINES
The decision to issue fresh guidelines is rooted in the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across Karnataka. On May 31, the Department of Health and Family Welfare reported 114 new infections in the last 24 hours, pushing the cumulative count for 2025 to over 360 active cases. The state has also recorded three fatalities since January, all involving individuals with comorbidities. Nationally, India is witnessing a similar trend, with active cases rising sharply and new variants such as NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 detected in multiple states.
To ensure compliance, district-level monitoring committees have been established. These committees conduct surprise inspections and provide feedback to school management. Non-compliance with guidelines can result in warnings, temporary closure, or other disciplinary actions as deemed necessary by authorities.
The guidelines also recommend the use of digital tools for attendance, homework submission, and parent-teacher meetings to reduce physical contact. Schools are encouraged to leverage online platforms for extracurricular activities and competitions, maintaining student engagement while minimizing risk.
Transportation protocols have been updated as well. School buses are to be sanitized before and after each trip, with seating limited to ensure distancing. Drivers and attendants must wear masks at all times, and students are assigned fixed seats to facilitate contact tracing if necessary.
COMMUNICATION, COORDINATION, AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
The Karnataka government has called for robust communication channels between schools, parents, and local health authorities. Schools are encouraged to keep parents regularly informed about any developments, suspected cases, or changes in protocols. In addition, the Health Department has advised schools to coordinate closely with local health officials to ensure swift action in the event of an outbreak or cluster of cases.
For boarding schools, additional measures are in place. Dormitories are to operate at reduced capacity, with regular health checks for both students and staff. Shared facilities like dining halls and recreation rooms are subject to enhanced cleaning and ventilation standards.
The government is also monitoring the situation in colleges and higher education institutions, with similar guidelines issued for hostels, libraries, and laboratories. Coordination between school and college authorities is encouraged to ensure a unified response across the education sector.
Periodic review meetings are scheduled at the state and district levels to assess the effectiveness of the guidelines and make adjustments based on emerging data. The Health Department has committed to transparent communication, releasing regular updates on case numbers, recoveries, and any changes to protocols.
LOOKING AHEAD: A BALANCED APPROACH TO EDUCATION AND HEALTH
As Karnataka prepares for the reopening of schools, authorities are striving to strike a balance between resuming in-person education and protecting public health. The new guidelines reflect a cautious yet practical approach, prioritizing early detection, prevention, and community cooperation. Health officials have reiterated that while the current variants are causing mostly mild symptoms, strict adherence to these protocols is essential to prevent larger outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
Community awareness campaigns are being launched to reinforce the importance of COVID-19 appropriate behavior beyond school premises. Radio, television, and social media are being used to disseminate information and counter misinformation about the virus and vaccines.
The government has also appealed to private sector partners and NGOs to support schools by donating hygiene supplies, masks, and digital learning tools, especially in under-resourced areas. Collaborative efforts are seen as vital to ensuring that no school or student is left behind in the fight against COVID-19.
Teachers’ associations have welcomed the guidelines, noting that clear protocols provide reassurance and help maintain focus on education. However, they have also requested ongoing support, including mental health resources and hazard allowances for staff working in high-risk areas.
As the situation evolves, the government remains committed to evidence-based decision-making. The guidelines will be updated as necessary, drawing on the latest scientific research and feedback from educators, parents, and health experts. This adaptive approach is seen as key to navigating the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19 in Karnataka’s schools.
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