This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
On July 5, 2020, Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha announced that all tutors at technical training colleges (TTCs) in Kenya would undergo Covid-19 tests before the institutions reopened.
Speaking at the Kenya School of Government in Embu County, Prof Magoha emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of learners by confirming that teaching staff were free from the disease.
With over 13 million students enrolled in TTCs across the country, Prof Magoha directed that the teachers be tested two weeks before the institutions re-opened.
He ordered Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang to arrange the exercise, signaling that the colleges could resume operations soon.
"We must be careful before colleges are re-opened," Prof Magoha said.
After reopening, the tutors will be tested again after 14 days alongside non-teaching staff, with the CS stating that "testing will be a continuous process once pupils and students go back to school."
Prof Magoha also emphasized the need for preventive measures to be put in place in learning institutions, including a steady supply of water, clean toilets, and handwashing points for children.
He reminded administrators to ensure social distancing in the institutions.
