The final night of the FIFA World Cup 2022 was a spectacle that captivated the nation, but it also had an unexpected impact on school attendance. The thrilling Spain-Argentina match, which ended with Spain's victory, kept many Calcuttans up until the early hours of the morning. This, coupled with the virus season, led to a significant drop in student turnout at schools across the city.
The low attendance figures were particularly noticeable in senior classes, with some schools reporting attendance as low as 30%. This was a stark contrast to the usual Monday morning routine. The Julien Day schools, for instance, recorded an attendance rate of 35-40%, which was still lower than expected. Interestingly, the schools that saw the highest attendance were those that had postponed tests, indicating that the relaxed approach to exams may have played a role in encouraging students to stay away.
The football fever was palpable, with students eagerly discussing the match and its implications. Many students rooted for Spain, celebrating Ferran Torres' match-winning goal. However, the emotional exit of Lionel Messi also left a lasting impression, even on those who supported Spain. The excitement and emotion of the game seemed to have a profound effect on the students, with some even skipping school to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
But it wasn't just the football that kept students at home. The virus season has taken its toll, with many children suffering from viral fever and some even missing exams. The schools reported a rise in fever cases, with children getting sick after being exposed to the rain and sitting in air-conditioned classrooms or buses. The current strain of the virus is causing mild illness, but it has still led to a significant number of absences.
The schools are struggling to balance the need for students to attend exams with their health. Some parents are still sending unwell children to school, hoping they will recover in time. However, this approach is not without its risks, as the children often have to take medicine before leaving home, only to feel unwell once the effect wears off. The schools are urging parents to cooperate and understand the importance of keeping children healthy, especially during formative assessments.
In conclusion, the final night of the FIFA World Cup had a significant impact on school attendance, but it also highlighted the challenges that schools face during the virus season. The schools are working hard to ensure that students can attend exams without compromising their health, and it is crucial that parents support this effort to ensure a healthy and productive learning environment.
