A noticeable decrease in student attendance was observed at several primary schools in Dhaka on Monday, marking the second consecutive day of low turnout after classes resumed amidst a fresh heatwave alert.

While the government closed all secondary-level educational institutions, colleges, madrassahs, and technical educational institutions in five districts, including Dhaka, for Monday, some high schools continued academic activities.

Since April 21, all pre-primary level classes have remained closed.

On Sunday, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department issued a countrywide third-phase heatwave alert for the next 72 hours, following soaring temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius or above in at least 14 districts.

After a seven-day closure due to the ongoing heatwave, educational institutions resumed in-person classes on Sunday, with shortened durations and suspended outdoor activities. However, reports emerged of students falling ill and remaining absent, while two teachers reportedly died of heatstroke.

At Khodeza Khatun Government Primary School and Shaheed Buddhijibi Dr Amin Uddin Government Primary School, only about 50 percent of students attended classes on Monday. Guardians expressed concerns over the health risks and urged for primary schools' closure.

Similar situations were observed at Nilkhet Government Primary School, where attendance was around 50 percent.

Nilkhet High School and University Laboratory School and College, both with primary sections, remained closed, while Udayan Higher Secondary School conducted classes as students arrived.

The education ministry's press release on Sunday stated that secondary-level educational institutions in Dhaka, Chuadanga, Jashore, Khulna, and Rajshahi districts would remain closed on Monday, with decisions subject to review based on the prevailing situation.

Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury emphasized the need to avoid widespread closures based solely on forecasts, stressing the importance of consulting health and meteorological authorities before making decisions. Meanwhile, the primary and mass education ministry announced the continuation of primary-level classes, emphasizing their morning schedule.