On Friday, the Federal Government declared that, except for any last-minute change in plans, tertiary institutions operated by the Federal Government in Nigeria, as well as Federal Government Colleges, otherwise known as Unity Schools, would reopen on October 12 to begin academic activities.
Similarly, it is proposed that states and private school owners will hammer out modalities for reopening schools under their jurisdiction.
Recall that after the outbreak of COVID-19 in Nigeria, schools in Nigeria were shut down in March, and the essence, according to the government, was to control the population transmission of the dreaded coronavirus.
Education Minister Mallam Adamu Adamu, speaking at a press conference in Abuja, said the decision to reopen the schools was a sequel to the analysis of the COVID-19 situation in Nigeria, considering the steady decline in the number of infections.
He said: "We have consulted extensively on the issue with stakeholders in the field, including the Association of Private Schools (NAPPS), Provosts of Education Colleges, Rectors of Polytechnics, Vice-Chancellors of Universities, State Governors, Education Commissioners and other development partners, and have secured their support and cooperation."
He therefore requested schools to conform strictly and rigidly to COVID-19 protocols, warning that appropriate penalties await any school owner who does not comply with the safety guidelines that could contribute to the school's coronavirus outbreak.
Adamu added: "Regularly, secure distancing procedures should be performed." In addition, on day-to-day behavior to be operated in each classroom, schools should create and view clear context specific reference protocols.
'Make risk assessments with a view to understanding the device vulnerabilities that may increase the risk of transmission, and make recommendations to resolve the vulnerabilities. Sufficient protocols for sensitization and monitoring should be in place.
The Minister strongly promoted the provision of water, school-wide sanitation facilities and the use of open spaces for meeting and encouraging outdoor activities.
In introducing the COVID-19 protocols for the protection of children, he urged schools to be cautious, strict and rigid, stressing that nothing should be taken for granted.
Content created and supplied by: Tiwalade (via Opera News )
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