Schools, Colleges witness lukewarm reopening day

While Reeda Shaikh's school welcomed 90 per cent of its students, attendance at some other schools stood as low as 10 per cent

Schools, Colleges witness lukewarm reopening day

While Reeda Shaikh's school welcomed 90 per cent of its students, attendance at some other schools stood as low as 10 per cent

St Anne's School, where India's first swine flu victim Reeda Shaikh (14) studied, was one of the schools to open yesterday after a state-imposed 15-day closure on educational institutions.

It saw an encouraging 90 per cent attendance. The school paid respects to Shaikh.

The attendance in other institutions, however, was not as encouraging.

Ahilyadevi School, where Shruti Gavade (14), yet another swine flu victim studied, saw only 65 per cent of its students attending classes yesterday.

Tilottama Reddy, the school's principal said they had not let down their guard against swine flu. "We are taking all precautions. During the 15 day break, we got the PMC to fumigate the school thoroughly," she said.

Jaya Bhaskar, principal of Abhinav English Medium School, which reported 21 cases of swine flu, said students who have recovered are facing no discrimination. However, only 10 per cent reported to school yesterday.

Ravindra Vanjarwadkar, the president of the Maharashtra Education Society, which manages several educational institutions, said attendance was normal.
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The scene was similar at Fergusson, BMCC and Wadia Colleges.

Symbiosis College, however, wore a deserted look, as only students from hostels attended classes.

Sadanand Mohol, president, Pune Exhibitor Association, said theatres sold only 15 per cent of all tickets.

Said A M Jaswani, manager, Mangala multiplex, "We were expecting a huge draw this week. But the people are still not venturing out. The rains also have a role to play in the poor turnout."

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