Chennai, Dec 4 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi revealed on Wednesday that the half-yearly examinations in districts affected by rainfall will be held during the first week of January 2025.

The minister confirmed that the exams set for December 9 will continue as planned, with the exception of schools located in areas impacted by the rainfall from Cyclone Fengal.

Due to these disruptions, both practical and theoretical examinations that were initially scheduled for December have been rescheduled for January.

The minister noted that the Education Department is collaborating closely with school headmasters in the severely affected regions and has tasked education officials with making appropriate preparations.

Previously, the minister instructed all Chief Educational Officers to evaluate schools and assess the damage inflicted by Cyclone Fengal.

During a meeting with officials from the Education Department across 15 impacted districts, he highlighted the necessity of evaluating the conditions of schools in severely damaged areas such as Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore, where high river flows have caused substantial destruction.

The minister also commanded the District Monitoring Officers to take prompt action in locations where trees and buildings have suffered damage and to compile detailed reports.

School principals have been directed to inspect electrical wiring, books, and records to ensure they remain undamaged.

In preparation for the northeast monsoon, the School Education Department had previously issued notifications to guarantee appropriate safety and cleanliness measures in schools.

Additionally, school management has been instructed to provide the revenue department with details of key holders for school and canteen facilities to support vulnerable individuals during disasters such as floods.

Schools have also been advised to ensure that roofs are clear of water accumulation and to drain them promptly if any is present.

The department has mandated that schools refrain from using dilapidated buildings and to educate students about safety protocols during emergencies.