PW invited parents of HG International, Abu Road, Rajasthan to share their insights on how return to on-campus schooling is helping their children.

“Any parent who has had to chase her child back to her laptop for online classes will agree that the joy of in-person schooling far outweighs online learning. Resumption of normal school has helped my daughter Mehul (class X) to socialise, renew friendships, and cope with stress. I believe children form worthwhile relationships through in-person rather than online interaction. This is crucial to their socio-emotional development. In my opinion, in-class learning is where real and effective education happens through real-time exchange of ideas and opinions” — Vishal Jain, examination controller & HoD computer science department, HG International School.

“Although my son Himesh (class VIII) has adapted well to the online education initiatives of his school over the past pandemic years, in my opinion real and rounded learning happens only in on-campus classrooms. In-person schooling promotes the spirit of healthy competition among children be it in academic, sports or extra-curricular education. In turn this enhances their social, physical and mental well-being. Above all, they learn by watching their peers and teachers. I must commend HG International School for according highest priority to children’s safety and hygiene.” — Dayavati Charan, teacher at a government senior secondary school, Mandoli Nagar, Rajasthan.

“Since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, online school education has taken a heavy toll on my daughter Sara (class XII). Despite her teachers taking extra care with online lessons delivery, the overall home learning experience has been a strain on her eyes and impacted her socio-emotional development. Resumption of normal school has put an end to all that. The physical presence of her teachers has enhanced her concentration levels and instilled a sense of discipline. Moreover she is socially interacting with her peers, an activity she missed in the pandemic years” — Dilshad Bano, homemaker.

“Not being able to attend on-campus school has impacted my teenage son Niyant’s socio-emotional well-being as it has with most children his age. Now with normal schooling having resumed, Niyant’s state of mind, discipline and energy levels have improved greatly. These are proof of the positive effect of social interaction. As parents, we are relieved to see our children happy and active again. For this, we are grateful to my son’s teachers and school management” — Dr. Raman Bagla, dental practitioner.