Schools across Gujarat, including Vadodara, reopened on Monday for the new academic year, bringing back the excitement and energy of students after the summer vacation. Classrooms and school campuses were filled with enthusiasm as children returned with fresh hopes and goals for the year ahead.
The day was particularly special for students entering Standard 1 for the first time. Many schools organized welcome programmes, greeting children with tilak, flowers, chocolates and other activities to make their first day memorable. Teachers also encouraged students to maintain discipline, regular attendance and focus on their studies.
With the reopening of schools, transport operators, including school van and rickshaw services, have resumed operations. Parents of newly admitted students were seen coordinating with transport providers to ensure safe and timely travel arrangements for their children.
The start of the academic session has also boosted activity in markets selling school uniforms, stationery, bags and other educational materials. For the past several days, parents have been visiting shops to purchase supplies required for the new term.
However, the excitement surrounding the new school year has been overshadowed by a shortage of textbooks in several areas. Stationery shops across the city have reported high demand, but many books are still unavailable or available only in limited quantities.
Parents have expressed concern over the delay, with some being told that certain textbooks will have to be ordered separately. Schools, meanwhile, have assured parents that the required books will be made available soon.
Despite the textbook shortage, students, parents and teachers welcomed the beginning of the new academic year, with educational activities set to gather pace in the coming days as schools once again become centres of learning and creativity.