The Federal Government has warned that the reopening of schools for final year classes on August 4 would depend on the state of preparedness of each of the examination centres in the country.
Emeka Nwajiuba, Minister of State (Education), in making the clarifications in Abuja, said primary schools are excluded from the reopening next week.
“What we have said is that the schools that will be reopening are schools that are centres for these exams only in respect of the exiting classes. Primary schools and all other classes are excluded from this decision.
“We arrived at this decision having met with all the stakeholders. Part of what they will update us with on Friday will be for them to report back, their state of preparedness. The state of preparedness of each of these centres will inform how they open.
“I am in discussion with the Minister of Environment. Wherever we see gaps in the state of preparedness, we will address. If it is not possible, we will not allow them (pupils) to use them (the centres).
“But all the state governors, commissioners of education, all the other stakeholders, including the Association of Private School Owners, have all given us their commitment that they will try to resolve these, and provide for the teachers. WAEC will also provide for their invigilators and make sure that this conduct is seamless.”
Also, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has affirmed that its position on COVID-19 protocols during examinations had not changed.
Demianus Ojijeogu, WAEC’s Spokesperson, its position as stated by the Head of the Nigeria National Office of WAEC, Patrick Areghan, on July 7 remains unchanged.
Areghan had said, “Schools must provide wash-hand buckets with running water, soaps, hand sanitisers and thermometer hand-gun to check the temperature of all concerned. All examination functionaries, including the council’s staff on distribution; supervisors; invigilators, inspectors; candidates and school officials will be required to wear face masks, wash and sanitise their hands daily and throughout the duration of the examination.”
Areghan also said the Council would ensure social distancing in the examination halls by making sure that candidates sit two metres apart.
