Minister announces suspension of classes

The National National
Students gathering at a bus stop in Port Moresby yesterday after they were sent home following the announcement of the 14-day lockdown by the Prime Minister on Monday. – Nationalpic by KENNEDY BANI

SCHOOLS in National Capital District have been directed to suspend classes for two weeks due to the recent spike in the coronavirus cases in the city and the 14-day lockdown order in line with the Pandemic Act.
Education Minister Joseph Yopyyopy gave this directive to all education authorities and administrators of schools operating under the national education system.
This included permitted schools and private schools to suspend normal face-to-face classes from Wednesday, July 29, to Aug 12.
Yopyyopy advised teaching staff to use online learning if possible or issue projects and other homework for students in grades 7-12 to make up for lost time over the suspension period.
School administrations were also asked to add more washing and toilet facilities and to sanitise their premises if possible with only ancillary staff to remain at schools during the lockdown.
Specific instructions on national examinations will be given if the lockdown is extended, however, the grade 12 written expression examination set for Aug 17 would proceed as scheduled.
“All schools in other provinces must continue normal classes and observe and practice the Covid-19 protocols of washing hands regularly, applying hand sanitiser, having temperature readings using temperature guns and maintaining social distancing,” Yopyyopy said.