United News of Bangladesh

A writ petition was filed with the High Court on Thursday seeking directives to keep schools closed until measles outbreak in the country is brought under control. The write petition also sought formation of a high-level committee to probe the deaths of 47 children due to measles. Supreme Court Lawyer Lutfe Jaahan Purnima filed the writ petition to the relevant branch of the High Court. It also sought issuance of a rule seeking explanation from the respondents as to why their inaction and failure to prevent and control the measles outbreak should not be declared illegal, arbitrary and without lawful authority. The failure to ensure timely vaccination, maintain vaccine availability, and provide adequate healthcare services and emergency response measures are a clear violation of constitutional obligations, said the petition. It also sought directives for the respondents to immediately undertake a nationwide emergency measles vaccination programme, ensure the supply of vaccines, syringes and necessary logistics, and establish an effective emergency response system across the country including adequate medical facilities, specialized units, and ICUs.  

Due to the ongoing severe heatwave, the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education has announced the closure of all government primary schools, child welfare trust schools, and learning centers under the education bureau until Thursday. Senior Information Officer of the ministry, Mahbubur Rahman Tuhin, signed the notification on Monday, emphasising that the decision was made to ensure the health and safety of children. Additionally, educational activities at all institutions below the secondary level and vocational educational institutions in Dhaka, Chuadanga, Jashore, Khulna, and Rajshahi districts were suspended for Monday. Guidelines issued for primary schools reopening tomorrow amid heatwave A separate notice from the Education Ministry, signed by MA Khayer, public relations officer, was issued on Sunday following consultations with the Health Ministry and the Bangladesh Meteorological Department. However, educational institutions equipped with air conditioning were allowed to remain open. Despite the ongoing heatwave, which began in the first week of April, schools and colleges had initially resumed classes on Sunday after the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays and their subsequent extension due to the heat. Primary schools conducted classes on Monday since no directive had been issued by the concerned authorities until Sunday night. This reopening came even though there has been no significant relief from the heatwave, raising concerns among parents, particularly those with young children. Heat wave: Assembly at all govt primary schools suspended Originally, schools and colleges were set to reopen on April 21 after the Eid holidays, but the persistent extreme temperatures prompted authorities to extend the closure until April 27. The Ministry has advised parents and guardians to stay informed through official updates as the situation develops.