UNICEF has put up imaginary “pandemic classrooms” in several places in Raipur with empty classes, desks, and benches with unused bags and books. This is to highlight the learning crisis due to closure of schools in last 1.5 years. These classrooms are set up in Telibanda Talab, magneto Mall, City Centre Mall and Ambuja Mall in the city.
Job Zachariah, Chief of UNICEF Chhattisgarh says that ‘pandemic classrooms’ are put up to highlight the issue of learning loss of children and the need for learning recovery through special packages in schools, supported by parents and the community. “It also raises the issue of drop-out of children due to child labour, child marriage or child trafficking. As per UNESCO, 1 month of school closure results in 2 months of learning loss. Therefore, 1.5 years of school closure must have caused 3 years of learning loss for students. This means that a student of Class-5, is now at the learning level of Class-2. It is a grave situation, which should be addressed urgently” Zachariah said.
Children take-over key offices
Meanwhile, in a symbolic step, children took over key offices and positions related to children in various places in Chhattisgarh. Samagra Siksha Mission, Collectorates of Guarella Pendra Marvahi and Raigar, head of Avinash Group. This is to bring child rights at the centre stage, to mark the World Children’s day on 20 November. World Children’s Day, 20 November is also the anniversary of the United Nations Convention of Child Rights (UNCRC).