By Ritah Kemigisa
Government has accepted the reopening of schools to non candidates and universities but in a phased manner after nearly a year of closure due to the covid19 pandemic.
The decision was made during a cabinet meeting held on Monday, February 1st at state house Entebbe.
According to recommendations made, the phased reopening will allow the strict observance of the covid 19 standard operating procedures.
Semi candidates in S3, S5 and P6 classes have been asked to report back to school in the shortest term possible and study in shifts where necessary with the candidates to ensure completion of the academic year and progression.
“For classes studying in shifts, teachers will be guided to work through the homeschooling materials with a view of explaining and clarifying concepts and correcting self study work done by learners at home,” said Ofwono Opondo in a statement as he communicated the resolutions made by cabinet.
However pre primary schools will not be allowed to re-open since most of them are day and that learners in this category can not observe covid SOPs and are prone to respiratory infections including covid19.
Meanwhile promotion to the next class will be based on attendance and continuous assessment of class work and assignments.
Other higher institutions of learning including teachers colleges and technical institutions have also been allowed to reopen for all students.
The actual date of reopening is expected to be announced by president Museveni tomorrow.
Prior to reopening of these education institutions, the ministries of education, health and local government and other key ministries will carry out a massive awareness campaign to enable parents and learners to prepare for reopening.
All learners will be required to wear face masks and parents will be asked to provide two of them to each learner.
