Education Ministry gives comprehensive statement on Term 2 opening dates 2024

The Ministry of Education has given a detailed statement on guidelines to be followed to reopen schools for term two, 2024. This is after the Ministry postponed reopening of schools by one week; following the heavy rains experienced countrywide.

Here is the latest circular;

All County Directors of Education

RE: POSTPONEMENT OF SCHOOLS OPENING DATES FOR SECOND TERM 2024

The Ministry of Education issued a directive to field officers to compile data from all Basic Education Learning Institutions across the country. This was to assist the Government in evaluating the preparedness of schools for the Second Term opening, originally scheduled for Monday, April 29, 2024.

Reports submitted to the Ministry of Education, in conjunction with data from other relevant Government agencies, have revealed that a number of schools in different regions of the nation have been significantly impacted by the ongoing heavy rains. The destructive consequences of these rains in some of the affected schools are of significant magnitude. Further the transport systems have also been significantly affected and might not be safe for students to travel.

In light of this, the Ministry of Education has made the decision to postpone the reopening of all primary and secondary schools by one week. The new opening date is set for Monday, May 6, 2024 for ALL schools. During this interim period, the Ministry will collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to implement measures aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of the rains.

Further, the Ministry will be providing regular updates on all developments concerning the education sector. Consequently, you are expected to address the following issues that might arise.

1. a) Safety of Learners: For schools that have learners who had already traveled for the Second Term, it is imperative to ensure their safety. Such learners should be retained within the school premises and not exposed to the dangers of traveling back home under the current adverse weather conditions. Any learner who has not traveled to school should remain at home.
2. b) Communication with Parents: Schools are required to communicate this postponement and all subsequent updates to all parents and guardians. It is essential that they are informed of the measures being taken to safeguard their children.
3. c) Storage of Food Supplies: With the postponement, schools must take measures to secure food supplies already in stores. Proper storage should be assured so that losses are minimized during this period.
4. d) Security of School Property: Enhanced security measures should be put in place to protect school property during the postponement period. This is to prevent any potential loss or damage that could occur due to the heavy rains or other related incidents.
5. e) Daily Updates: Schools are expected to provide daily updates on the status of their preparation for reopening and the actions taken to mitigate against flooding. These updates are crucial for the Ministry to monitor the situation and provide assistance where necessary.

Bring the content of this circular to all schools within your respective jurisdictions.