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MANGALURU: Unsparing efforts of teachers appears to be paying off as Dakshina Kannada district has the most students attending Vidyagama, with 62% students turning out for classes under the continuous learning programme. Vijayapura district brings up the rear with just 19.5% attendance.

Overall, Vidyagama attendance in the state stands at 42%. Under Vidyagama, which resumed a month ago, classes are held from 10am to 12.30pm on alternative days for grades 6, 7 and 8. Dakshina Kannada district also tops in SSLC, PUC and college attendance in the state. This is all the more remarkable since Vidyagama attendance in neighbouring Udupi district is a mere 29.5%.

Malleswamy, deputy director of public instruction, DK, said attendance in government schools is close to 90% whereas it’s below 80% in aided/private schools. As many as 29 children and 55 government teachers had been infected with the virus during Vidyagama first phase, but that hasn’t stopped either teachers or students.

“The main reason why Vidyagama is successful although a number of teachers contracted Covid-19 is because of the dedication of teachers, students and parents,” said a block education officer. “Increased awareness is also a driving force and parents are more than willing to send their wards to schools. Students too are uncomfortable with online classes and are happy attending on-campus Vidyagama classes.”

Lokesh C, BEO, Puttur, said teachers are strictly enforcing safety rules and it has helped boost attendance. Also, parents of government school students are pushing their wards to attend. “Students in private schools have the facility [devices and internet connection] to attend online classes, but most students in government don’t have access. So, parents are pushing their children to attend classes regularly,” he said. “Credit for the success of the programme must go to all stakeholders – teachers, students and parents.”

The district administration has made arrangements to ensure students from other districts, especially north Karnataka, who study in DK, to attend Vidyagama/SSLC classes in their hometowns. But they will have to take examinations in DK district.