Education Cabinet Secretary professor George Magoha on Wednesday, September 30, told lmembers of parliament that time was ripe for reopening of schools.
Magoha who was appearing before parliamentary committee, said that the second phase of reopening of schools set to be unveiled soon, will target learners in standard eight and form four.
The ever serious CS argued that Covid-19 situation may remain the same even in January 2021 and that the government is taking every measure into consideration.
“It is time to open and just like His Excellency said, we just need to know the how. I cannot give you a date but I assure you that the government of the Republic of Kenya is taking every measure into consideration. What we must ask ourselves is what is going to be different in January 2021?” Magoha posed.
Magoha also noted that should schools reopen, social distance will be a tall order. He however exuded confidence that with containment guidelines fronted by the ministry of health like face masks and hand washing, the students can be kept safe in schools.
He said they will observe how the tertiary and university students are coping and will be forced to bite the bullet.
Yesterday in line with president Uhuru’s directive during the 12th Covid-19 address, Prof. Magoha okayed universities to reopen for Final Year students so as to start face-to-face studies on Monday, October 5.
Other Students in year one, year two and year three will be informed when in-person learning will commence by the respective University Councils and their Senates.
“The respective University Councils and their Senates will announce the date for resumption of in-person learning for students in other academic classes, with priority being accorded to those undertaking Science-based courses,” said the CS.
The CS also indicated that final year students in Teachers’ Training Colleges (TTCs) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions will resume learning next week.
“The examination classes of Teachers’ Training Colleges (TTCs) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions will report on Monday, October 5, 2020,”