Federal Government Gives School Owners 12 days Ultimatum for School Reopening
The Federal Government of Nigeria has given a 12 day deadline for school owners to meet specific COVID-19 guidelines for the safe reopening of schools.
It stated that schools are expected to undertake self-assessment and send feedback to State Ministries of Education, not later than 29th of July, 2020.
Once this guidelines are put in place, the Government assured it will make an official announcement for the reopening of school.
Nwajiuba disclosed that, the Federal Ministry of Education (FMoU), having consulted widely in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Education in Emergencies Working Group, developed and circulated guidelines for the reopening of school.
Director of Information (FMoE), Ben Goon, in his statement said “ the minister said school owners are expected to prepare and comply with the guidelines.
“Therefore , consultations with relevant stakeholders will be held to review the situation and decide on a specific date for reopening or otherwise.
The Minister further explained that “having taken necessary decision not to reopen schools without necessary preparations to ensure the safety of students and teachers, the Federal Ministry of Education has continued consultation with stakeholders, and a mechanism to asses monitor compliance shall be put in place,” the statement read.
The Minister said the ministry has consulted with Commissoners of education in 36 states, the Association of Proprietors of Private Schools Owners of Nigeria (CAPSON), National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Provost of Colleges of Education, Rectors of Polytechnics? Vice Chancellors of Universities, some State Governors, and development partners since Tuesday last week.
While answering question on WAEC, Nwajiuba said “ we met with WAEC on Monday and have agreed to further consult four other countries on a new examination date.
“We appreciate the concern show by all stakeholders and note the divergent views express in the matter.
“Parent should be rest assured the safety of our students and teachers is paramount as we work assiduously towards speedy reopening of our schools for the exit classes to take external examinations,” the statement said.
