EDUCATION

Postpone School Resumption for 3 Months- Reps

January 17, 2021

Postpone school resumption for 3 Months- Reps tells Federal Government of Nigeria.

The House of Representative says government officials did not consult the relevant committees of the National Assembly, contrary to their claim that all relevant stakeholders were consulted before arriving at the January 18, 2021, resumption date.

It, therefore, demanded postponement of resumption for three months, where necessary safety measures weren’t put in place and compliance with protocols low.

This statement was disclosed by Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services, Prof Julius Ihonvbere.

Ihonvbere, in a statement he issued in Abuja on Saturday, on behalf of his committee, opposed the Monday resumption date.

Postpone School Resumption for 3 Months- Reps tells FG

The statement was titled “School resumption: Are we truly prepared?”

It reads, “The Committee on Basic Education and Services, House of Representatives, has received with concern the decision of the Federal Government to reopen schools on January 18, 2021.

We are particularly concerned that when the infection rates hovered around 500 and under, schools were closed; but now that it hovers well above 1,000 infections daily, schools are being reopened.

Why are we rushing to reopen schools without adequate verifiable and sustainable arrangements to protect and secure our children?”

January 18 School Resumption Date Stands

The January 18 school resumption date stands as federal government puts limitations to class sizes, hostel occupancy and asked the schools to ensure the compulsory wearing of face masks by all students, teachers and workers, as well ensure temperature checks and put hand washing facilities in strategic locations in all schools to curb the spread of the COVID-19.

Also Read: FG Orders Reopening Of Secondary Schools

Adamu told parents and the respective institutions to ensure full compliance with COVID-19 protocols.

“Sequel to the hint given during the press briefing on January 12, 2021, for the review of the proposed resumption date of January 18, 2021, the Federal Ministry of Education has undertaken a comprehensive appraisal of the situation.

“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 January 18 should remain, while parents and respective institutions must ensure full compliance with COVID-19 protocols.

“These measures, which are to ensure the safe reopening of schools for academic activities, will be subject to constant review as we urge teachers, school administrators and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance.”

Opinion about school Resumption/Closure

Some students opined that federal government should have put everything in place during that lockdown and the long holiday. Why should they even think of shutting down schools again when all the measures couldn’t be put in place at initial stage.