Shillong, Jan 6: In view of the detection of Omicron variant of COVID-19 in state and to prevent further spread of the coronavirus, Meghalaya government on Thursday extended the winter vacation for schools till January 24. The schools were earlier scheduled to open from January 10.

Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the decision has been taken to ensure the safety and security of the students.

He also noted that Covid-19 is always one step ahead of whatever is being planned to contain it, hence the best solution is to help ourselves.

Therefore, he urged the all the students and their parents to come forward for vaccination.

As far the closure of schools and colleges in concerned, he said the department has issued a notification and the matter has been left to the Managing Committees and District administration to take action as and when needed.

“We have to take the decision at the micro level and we seek cooperation of the parents, students and the community as a whole,” he added.