Schools need to open as soon as possible: Education Minister

COLOMBO (News 1st); Schools need to open as soon as possible, Minister of Education G.L. Peiris says.

Speaking to Media, the Education Minister said that the most unfortunate aspect of the current situation is the loss of educational opportunities experienced by children of disadvantaged families in the country.

He said that it poses major problems for children living in remote areas of the country, especially in areas without internet access.

"Now all these children are appearing for the general government examinations and we have ensured that they are ready for them. And in this situation, the primary goal is to open schools as soon as possible, subject to health restrictions" The Minister further stated.

He pointed out that the Government had announced that all public officials should also carry out their duties as usual from today (02).

The Education Minister also emphasized that the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine has been given to 83% of teachers and non-academic staff in the country.

"So in this context, as the Minister of Education, I kindly request teachers and non-academic staff to go to the schools and make the necessary preparations for the reopening of those schools." The Minister urged.

"In theory, it is always possible to open schools on the advice of the health authorities after the second dose is given in August. There are about 10,165 schools in the whole country out of which there are 2,962 schools in our country with less than 100 full school children. After the second dose is given, teachers and non-academic staff can open these schools. We can obtain the approval of the health authorities for that purpose." He added.

The Education Minister also stated that the Government intends to open schools in a step-by-step process according to a systematic plan.