LNP – Reopening of schools not appropriate during this Covid situation

Schools cannot be re-opened presently due to the critical COVID-19 situation in the country, the Health Ministry said today.

Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath told the media that the Health Ministry is not in a position to give the green light to re-open schools at present.

“It is the responsibility of the education authorities to set the tone so that the Health authorities could consider the request and allow the re-opening of the schools,” he said.

“We, as health officials cannot create the environment. The responsibility that lies on us is to ensure that COVID cases are reduced, which would happen gradually,” Dr. Herath emphasized.

He said it is imperative to ensure the safety of school children if the schools are to be reopened.