Schools Will Remain Open Despite COVID-19 Cases Surge - Government

The government has resolved to keep schools open despite a surge in COVID-19 cases in some schools since early this month.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting minister Monica Mutsvangwa said Cabinet noted that the increase in infections was insignificant to warrant schools closure. In a post-Cabinet Press briefing on Tuesday, Mutsvangwa said:

The meeting, however, noted that out of a total school enrolment of 4,6 million, the number of COVID-19 positive cases detected is insignificant. All cases are being well-managed in line with the standard guidelines for the co-ordinated prevention and management of COVID-19 at all learning institutions in Zimbabwe.

Furthermore, most cases among learners are asymptomatic or have only mild symptoms. Accordingly, Cabinet resolved that schools will remain open. Learners, who are isolated, will be provided with alternative learning platforms.

A number of schools have been hit by COVID-19 infections, with teachers claiming the government prematurely reopened schools before creating a conducive environment in learning institutions.

Minister Mutsvangwa also said the government had resolved to enhance surveillance and contact tracing at schools and the surrounding communities and to increase on-site COVID-19 testing of all suspected cases.

The government will also restrict movement into and out of the schools affected until the outbreaks have been controlled. She added that there will be vaccination of all eligible populations in schools and also in the surroundings.

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