The Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Premila Kumar confirms that schools will open as advised earlier.

Years 8 to 13 will start school on 4 January 2022 while Early Childhood Education (ECE) to Year 7 will start on 10 January 2022.

“We are having daily discussions with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, WHO and UNICEF and if the situation changes, I will make an appropriate announcement.

Right now, the Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts, Heads of Schools and teachers are preparing schools for re-opening and also stand ready to implement any additional measures that may be brought in by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

I urge parents and students to take heed of the advisories issued by the MHMS,” said the Minister.

“Some parents are saying that they don’t want to send their children to school.”

“I can only say that we can’t force them to send their children to school.”

“It’s their decision.”

“The majority of the parents want their children to get back to school,” the Minister added.

The Ministry places a strong emphasis on education and would not want to compromise children’s education through longer school closure.

The decision to open schools or any other decision on schools will be made based on scientific data and advice from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, WHO and UNICEF with whom the Ministry is liaising very closely.

“I expect the media to be responsible and report accurately rather than negatively hyping on issues that are not relevant.”

“At this time particularly, we all need to come together and ensure that correct information reaches the public, teachers, parents and students,” the Minister reiterated.

Every citizen has to be responsible for their own safety and the safety of those around them.

The Minister emphasised that everyone should observe COVID-Safe measures at all times and get their Booster shots as soon as possible.

Parents are encouraged to get their children fully vaccinated.

“I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very productive new year and hope that we will have better days sooner,” said the Minister.

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