COVID-19: SCHOOLS READY TO RE-OPEN
By Brian Mwila:
With a few hours remaining before the reopening of schools strictly for examination classes, public and private learning institutions have enhanced their preparations to avoid the spread of Covid-19 among pupils.
Meanwhile, Government has decentralised the production of face masks to districts saying the Mulungushi Textiles that had been contracted is overwhelmed because of the high numbers.
In Solwezi District Parents have started dispatching their children to boarding schools adding that they will have to learn to live with the new normal of observing Covid-19 health guidelines.
Mushindamo Girls Boarding Secondary School, Parent Teachers Association -PTA- Chairperson Thomas Kafula says he is delighted that schools are resuming with key measures in place.
And, Maureen Mwale Director of Legacy School assured General Education Minister David Mabumba who toured the facility that only one pupil will be allowed per desk and per banker for borders.
She also said the school has already procured face masks similar with the school uniform so that there is no form of destruction or competition among pupils.
And, Mr. Mabumba said government will still supplement private schools’ efforts of purchasing face masks for their pupils.
He however said Mulungushi Textiles which was contracted to produce 1 point 3 million face masks for distribution across the country only started two weeks ago and they have not managed to finish the process before schools open.
The Minister said districts will have to take up the exercise.
And addressing a meeting in Mufulira District on the Copperbelt Province, Mr. Mabumba expressed happiness with the levels of preparedness.
He also thanked various Members of Parliament who have made significant donations to schools in their constituencies.
And, Kantanshi Member of Parliament Anthony Mumba donated various items among them over 5-thousand face masks, hand sanitisers, infra-red thermometers and cleaning materials to 22 schools in his constituency.
Mr. Mumba said it is important for lawmakers to contribute to the wellbeing of their people and support the education sector which is an equaliser.
What about the re-opening of GCE, are they going to open on the same day as internal?