The Zambian government on Friday announced it has decided to postpone the re-opening of schools in the country amid increasing coronavirus cases, reported the Africa News. The schools were previously scheduled to open on Monday, January 18.
President Edgar Lungu announced that the schools will now reopen next month on February 1.
In a statement, the Zambian President said the delay in the opening of schools was meant to allow the school authorities to prepare for safe reopening that includes putting in place various preventive measures against the coronavirus pandemic.
He said the country has witnessed a rapid surge in the number of coronavirus cases that could put children and staff at risk if schools get reopened without undertaking effective safety measures.
Teacher’s unions have also expressed concern about the readiness of the ministry of education ahead of the reopening.
Last week, the Zambian government once again banned the people of the country from going to stadiums to watch sports activities due to a recent spike in coronavirus cases. Initially, the government had banned people from stadiums but after broad deliberations between the Ministry of Health and Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), the ban was lifted in November. But, now, the government has set aside the order and ban stadium attendance again.
Zambia has so far reported 32,800 coronavirus cases and 514 deaths. Over 24,105 people have recovered from the virus so far.
In related news, the Nigerian government on Thursday directed all schools to reopen on January 18 despite a recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the country.
“After extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including State Governors, Commissioners of Education, Proprietors and heads of institutions, staff unions and students, the consensus of opinion is that the resumption date of 18th January should remain, while parents and respective institutions must ensure full compliance with COVID-19 protocols,” said Ben Goong, spokesperson for the Nigerian education ministry.
Amid the second wave of COVID-19, the West African country’s confirmed cases surpassed 107,000 on Friday.
