By Staff Reporter
The government has halted the gradual reopening of schools due to the rise in the Covid-19 infections.
Coming hot in the heels of partial reopening of learning institutions where Grade 4, Class Eight and Form Four were allowed to resume face-to-face learning, several institutions are reporting cases among learners and teachers.
Sources within the Ministry of Education said that resumption of physical learning for other classes is likely to catalyse infections curve.
So far two schools in Mombasa have been closed after 15 teachers tested positive for the Covid-19.
Confirming the crisis, Mombasa County Commissioner Mr Gilbert Kitiyo said 11 teachers from Tononoka High School and four from Mama Ngina High School tested positive for the virus.
Though learning continued in Mama Ngina High School, both Star of the Sea Secondary and Tononoka were closed to curb the spread of the virus.
The government has, however, stopped reporting of the Covid-19 cases in learning institutions, a directive that may not paint the vivid picture of the danger lurking in schools.
Speaking in a national radio station few days ago, the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association Chair Mr Kahi Indimuli said resumption of physical learning for other classes will make social distancing a tall order.
“Let those in school remain in school for now. Schools should work to ensure they are protected as teaching and learning continues,” Kahi said.
Mr Indimuli argues that recalling other learners will put the safety of those who are already in school at stake.
Kenya Parents Association Chair Mr Nicholas Maiyo on his side urged the government to test learners and teachers to help end fears.
