Profound Impact of Omicron Virus in the Global Education System

The third variant of Covid 19 is here. Research demonstrates that this variant spreads relatively faster in comparison to the original virus. It spreads quicker than the Delta variant, discovered in the first half of the year. Like the original strain, it is also airborne and can spread when coming in contact with infected persons. A patient suffering from the symptoms of the Omicron variant will easily spread the virus to those around him/her. Hence social distancing is one of the effective ways to avoid getting infected

Studies disclosed that vaccines might safeguard or protect people from the seriousness of the illness. They can significantly cut down the rates of emergencies and deaths. The bad news is that there is no guarantee whether the breakthrough injections can prevent the illness from occurring in people who have completed both doses. 

Since the vaccines have been potent against variants like Delta, it is expected by the healthcare professionals that it will also offer protection against omicron. Moreover, the emergence of this variant has strengthened the significance of getting vaccinations and subsequent boosters for the populace worldwide. 

The impact of Omicron on the education system

It is needless to say that Omicron has adverse effects in every sector. From aviation to hospitality, each business is suffering from a fall in profit rates. However, it is the global education system that is bearing the brunt and worst hit by the infection. 

1. Schools 

Schools and colleges have started their preparations and bracing themselves for facing another pandemic. With Covid 19 cases on the surge, they are feeling the heat of closing them down.

As per studies, adolescents ageing in between 12 to 17 years has been fully vaccinated. But 15% of kids between the ages of 5 to 11 years have not got a single dose as there are no approved vaccinations for them to prevent outbreaks of the Omicron variant individually. With professionals looking for work-from-home job opportunities, virtual training for students in schools is also being considered. 

Schools are continuing offline education with attendance remaining compulsory. For combatting a surge of cases, administrations in schools are contemplating increasing the number of off days in a week.

2. Colleges and universities

With more students in a college classroom studying together, health concerns are hugely exacerbated. Therefore, colleges will have to leave no stone unturned to implement rigorous precautionary measures on campus. 

Colleges might function partially online and partially face to face mode depending on the extremely of the infection. Students will be able to take part in online classes and e-learning. When it comes to completing the thesis papers, they have to opt for online professional Dissertation Help.

Students can resume education on campus when the school opens. The policies will vary depending upon the response to the variant. The e-learning methods will be effective for students when it comes to having immersive experiences. 

3. Education overseas

Students like relocating overseas when it comes to pursuing their higher education and professional courses. It is because of the world-class universities, excellent state-of-the-art facilities, and superb cutting-edge technologies. However, with the implementation of travel restrictions, there is a drop-in in the number of students relocating overseas. With the fear of the pandemic looming large, they are postponing studying abroad.

The education system abroad stays unpredictable with the future of countless students in jeopardy and hanging by a thread. Schools and universities located overseas may think about changing their present approach to students' education. Giving foremost priority to the health and wellness of students, they are seriously contemplating implementing and reviewing the precautionary rules and adopting new strategies. Many global institutions have advised their staff, visitors and pupils or students to wear a face-covering or mask while visiting their campus. It is mandatory to wear it.

Online education becoming prominent with the spread of the new pandemic variant