The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) is urging government to be resolute in its decision to keep schools open.
This is notwithstanding calls from parents and some stakeholders for the closure of schools after the recording of COVID-19 cases among staff and students of some senior high schools in parts of the country.
In a statement signed by the Acting President of GNAPS, Dr Damasus Tuurosong, the association insisted that government must stick to the already announced educational calendar released to cater for teaching and learning activities during the pandemic.
“GNAPS urges government to stick to its advertised schedule for final year senior high and junior high school candidates who are back in school to write their examinations. GNAPS believes that final year students should remain in school rather than being sent home on account of reported cases of COVID-19 in some public schools,” the statement said.
In the statement, Dr Tuurosong mentioned that GNAPS’ decision to support government decision to keep schools open is due to expert advice from the Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service that closing schools down would facilitate the quick spread of the virus.
The Acting President of GNAPS appealed to government for a second round of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for both students and staff of schools. He said it is in the best interest of the country for government to supply enough health and safety materials to all schools across the country whilst schools are still in session.
GNAPS assured government of the Association’s support to ensuring that health and safety protocols are strictly adhered to.
Dr Tuurosong told parents that as private schools, they will continue to do what it takes to protect students under their care. Dr Tuurosong said so far, there had been no positive case of the COVID-19 recorded in any of the GNAPS member schools.
Story filed by Mark Smith.
One Response
Very helpful