FG issues new guidelines for reopening of schools

The federal government has issued new guidelines for reopening of schools across the country.

Schools have been closed since March as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

While the federal government has announced October 12 as resumption date for “unity schools”, other private and state schools are expected to determine their schedule for return to classes.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Sani Aliyu, national coordinator of the presidential task force (PTF) on COVID-19, said many factors, including the capacity of schools to limit the spread of infection and communication strategies for disseminating information on COVID-19, should be taken into consideration before schools decide on full reopening.

“Schools and educational bodies that plan to reopen must have detailed communication protocols that include parents, school health teams, school authorities and local/state officials,” he said.

“They must also have a system for providing regular updates to parents, staff and relevant authorities, as well as communicate the changes to procedures effectively and clearly, as well as taking sufficient measures to understand how COVID-19 can spread and how you can mitigate in line with official guidelines.

“Specifically, school authorities have the responsibility to ensure that everyone gaining access to their schools is cleaned properly, is wearing a mask and sanitising their hands.

“Boarding schools must have identified areas for screening and put in positive students aside. There must be access to running water of some sort and hand washing facilities. The health staff, particularly in boarding schools, must be trained and provided with PPE. There must be appropriate waste management assistance. Health facilities that are within the schools that serve the schools should have the ability to cater for an outbreak, and a response protocol must be in place for day students who fall ill or test positive.

“And in this regard, it is important to involve parents and make sure that parents have signed consent forms in advance in the situation that may be required of students.

“Schools should also work in synergy with the local government rapid response teams and collaborate with the state ministries of health and planning on implementation and opening of the schools.