As schools resume for another academic session, it is important for them to put in place necessary safety measures as stipulated by the Federal Ministry of Education.
The federal government last week approved what it called “Safe reopening of schools nationwide” as part of the next phase of the gradual easing of lockdown ordered to curtail further spread of Covid-19.
Though, only graduating students in primary 6, junior secondary school 3 and senior secondary school 3 will resume, higher institutions, daycare centres and other classes in primary and secondary schools, apart from final classes, will remain closed until further evaluation.
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19, Mr. Boss Mustapha, disclosed these at the daily briefing of the task force in Abuja.
Mr Mustapha said the reopening of schools was meant to allow pupils in graduating classes resume preparation for examinations.
However, the Federal Ministry of Education had issued guidelines for reopening which include use of distant learning centres and temporary shelters, disinfection and fumigation of facilities including hostel accommodation, with particular attention on those used as temporary isolation and treatment centres as well as use of infrared thermometers for temperature check.
It also wants schools to sensitise, train and build the capacity of teachers, administrators, and other education personnel to effectively use and comply with the school Covid-19 referral system and protocols for safe distancing and hygiene in schools.
The government has also lifted the ban placed on interstate travels with effect from July 1, provided such journeys are made outside curfew hours.
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force, P.T.F, on Covid-19 said President Muhammadu Buhari approved the extension of the Phase II of the lockdown by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020 through midnight of Monday, 27 July, 2020.
Similarly, Presidential Task Force Coordinator, Dr Sani Aliyu pointed out that the government had approved the safe resumption of domestic flights in the country and domestic aviation services while restrictions on mass gatherings and sporting activities remains.
While stressing that transporters must adhere to guidelines that will be released by the Federal Ministry of Transportation, passengers must maintain physical distancing, as well as temperature checks.
Dr. Aliyu added that state governments would inspect facilities and confirm compliance as a pre-condition for resumption of interstate operations by transporters.
As some students resume, it is of utmost importance that schools adhere strictly to the Covid-19 protocols of providing running water with soap, hand sanitizers, physical distancing and regular nose covering.
Parents should ensure they pay attention to the health of their children while at home by providing them with nose masks, hand sanitizers and regular hand-washing under running water.
Titilayo Kupoliyi
pub-5160901092443552
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