This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
Kenya's Education sector has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the planned re-opening of primary and secondary schools now set for January 2021.
The new recommendation, presented to President Uhuru Kenyatta, takes into account the projected peak of COVID-19 cases in September. This means that all learners in Primary and Secondary schools could repeat their current classes next year.
Teacher Training colleges, Technical colleges, and Universities could, however, resume in September. The new proposal has been endorsed by all the teachers' unions and awaits the President's approval.
According to Prof. George Magoha, CS Education, schools will only be re-opened once the new coronavirus curve is flattened. To ensure social distancing, each classroom will require not more than 20 learners seated a distance of 1.5 meters apart.
Prof. Magoha added, "What will determine if we reopen is if we can maintain the social distancing. But now the peak will be in September and taper in January."
On the other hand, Tertiary institutions, universities, Teacher Training Colleges, and TVETS will likely re-open in October in phases, provided they meet the Ministry of Health guidelines and recommended protocols.
Published on July 2, 2020.
