Coronavirus lockdown: Delhi Government seeks slots on DD, AIR for virtual classes

The Delhi government has sought permission from Centre to provide three hours slot of daily airtime on Doordarshan and All India Radio to broadcast the lessons for students during the lockdown period.

The Delhi government have approached the Centre and has sought three hours of daily airtime on Doordarshan (DD) and All India Radio (AIR) to broadcast lessons for the student during the ongoing coronavirus lockdown.

"Even if the lockdown is lifted, it will take time to reopen the schools. Restoring to full-time classroom learning might take some time and broadcasting classes through DD and AIR will help in reaching maximum number of students. The government has sought separate slots for elementary, secondary and senior secondary classes," a senior official of the Directorate of Education (DoE) said.

On March 16, schools across the country were shut down after the Centre announced a countrywide classroom shutdown as one of the measures to contain the coronavirus outbreak. Later, a nationwide lockdown was announced on March 24, which has now been extended until May 3.

DD and AIR are already broadcasting virtual classes and other educational content through their regional channels across the country through the medium of TV, radio and YouTube.

"The Delhi government is already conducting online classes for students using online medium and by collaborating with the best of organisations. If Centre gives nod to the proposal, the teachers on board will be able to conduct the classes and air it as per the lesson plan," the official said.

The Delhi government has been conducting classes through various online platforms and sending out home assignments through phones. However, as per official statistics, only 68 per cent students have access to smartphones at home.

The issue was also raised by Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday in a meeting with education ministers of other states chaired by Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ''Nishank''.

Read More:

• Delhi HC rejects plea seeking to direct private schools not to charge tuition fees

• COVID-19: DD, AIR start virtual classes across country in regional languages