The government has said there is no chance that schools will be closed prematurely unless there is an explosion of coronavirus infections at learning institutions.
Zimbabwe has over 9 600 Government-run schools and “only” 30 public schools have recorded cases of COVID-19 since reopening in September.
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson, Taungana Ndoro said that measures introduced by authorities to help pupils recover learning time lost when schools were closed early this year, would become ineffective if schools were to close early again. Said Ndoro:
There is no chance that non-examination classes could close early unless there is an incredibly explosive rise of Covid-19 cases in schools.
Out of our 9 625 schools, less than 30 schools have had Covid-19 cases throughout the country, so there is no need for schools to close.
Ndoro said the government is reviewing schools’ carrying capacities, inspecting the boarding facilities and training hostel matrons, boarding masters and kitchen staff.
This comes after 52 students at Goromonzi and Waddilove High Schools tested positive for coronavirus last week.
A few weeks ago, John Tallach High School in Matabeleland North, Matobo High School in Matabeleland South and Chinhoyi High School in Mashonaland West recorded over 200 COVID-19 cases.