Ministry of Education has decided to recommence studies for key stage 3 which includes grades 7 and 8 in schools located in the Greater Male' Region on August 16. The education ministry said the decision to recommence studies for key stage 3 was made after extensive discussions with the Health Protection Agency (HPA).
After keeping the schools closed for over three months, following the COVID-19 pandemic, the ministry restarted grade schools for grades 9 and above on July 1. Despite a restriction on restarting studies for lower grade students in the Greater Male' Region, the ministry has restarted schooling for all grade students in islands without a reported case of COVID-19. However, no schools in the Maldives have commenced studies for the foundation level which includes kindergarten.
Meanwhile, in response to concerns from parents as some teachers and students have tested positive for COVID-19, the education ministry and the HPA assured the public that there are no outbreaks in any of the schools. The ministry further said schools have established safety precautions and measures, adding it is inspecting schools to check if they adhere to the safety guidelines of the HPA.
Arrangements have been made in schools for proper disinfection and handwashing, while all individuals entering a school are required to wear masks. Additionally, all students and teachers have been instructed to wear masks at all times in schools. Classroom arrangements have also been changed to ensure social distancing can be practiced.
The education ministry stated schools have been instructed to report any individual with COVID-19 symptoms, adding it is continuously working to ensure all school environments are safe for students.