Nairobi
By Selipher Musungu
The Ministry of Education has ruled out the re-opening of schools saying the safety of students and teachers comes first.
Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha said schools will only be opened when the coronavirus disease will have been contained.
Magoha noted that decisions pertaining opening of schools and universities cannot be made at the moment unless a report probing the safety standards of institutions is out.
“Kenyans should be made aware that painful but necessary decisions will be made based on the data and evidence from the Ministry of Health from time to time. All stakeholders should be therefore prepared for a likely extended closure of schools given that the government will never sacrifice our children at the expense of education,” stated Magoha.
Compounding fears of the parents are the surge in Covid 19 cases in the country that over the last few weeks have skyrocketed.
‘’We have taken the projection by the Ministry of Health seriously since more than 350 schools are currently designated as quarantine and isolation centers,’’ Said Magoha.
Magoha also cautioned the public on flouting health guidelines on social distancing stating that the more cases of the virus the longer the schools will remain closed.
He termed health of students as a priority that cannot not be sacrificed at any cost.
He urged parents to monitor their children, guiding and guarding them from harm they might be exposed at home. He also lauded the efforts by some parents in ensuring their children have access to phones and other gadgets that facilitate online learning.
Ends
