Subsequent to the decision made to reopen schools in four stages, the Education Ministry announced the re-opening of all schools in four stages commencing on Monday (July 6).

Accordingly, students in Grades 5, 11 and 13 are required to attend school from July 6 at the second stage.

The reopening of schools under the second stage will continue for two weeks until July 17, the Ministry said.

Earlier, all government schools were reopened last Monday (June 29) as the first stages.

While putting an end to the long school vacation, Education Minister Dullas Alahapperuma earlier said the decision on reopening schools were taken following a discussion with the President, the Education Ministry, the Health Ministry officials, the Higher Education Ministry, Cabinet Ministers and officials of the Presidential Task Force.

Circulars in this regard were sent to schools requesting students in Grades 5, 11 and 13.

The third stage will begin on July 20 with students in Grade 10 and 12 being asked to attend. It will continue until July 24. The fourth stage will begin on July 27 for Grade 3, 4, 6, 7, 8 and 9.

However, the minister said no decision has been taken as yet to reopen schools for Grade 1 and 2. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)