Framework for reopening schools in the midst of COVID-19
The UNICEF in collaboration with UNESCO, the World Bank, the World Food Programme and UNHCR has suggested a framework for a safe reopening of schools across the country even in the midst of the novel coronavirus.
President Nana Akufo-Addo on March 15, 2020 directed for the closure of schools in the country as part of precautionary measures to slow and curb the locally transmitted coronavirus.
Students except for final year students since the unexpected closure of schools have been home for several months as a temporal school break as the country’s health experts fight against the disease that has claimed 270 lives.
The United Nation’s agencies following students prolong stay at home has suggested a school reopening framework to ensure the safety of students and staff should the government consider reopening schools in the country.
Why reopen schools?
The agencies said there is a need for any government to consider reopening of schools because the longer children are out of school, the less likely they are to return.
It gave an instance that children from the poorest households are already almost five times more likely to be out of primary school than those from the richest.
According to them being out of school also increases the risk of teenage pregnancy, sexual exploitation, child marriage, violence and other threats.
The UN agencies recommend that schools reopenings must be safe and consistent with all reasonable measures taken to protect students, staff, teachers and their families. Download the school reopening framework.
Source: Georgeweb.org
