AS long as COVID-safe protocols are followed, teachers and children are safer in school than in the community, says United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) deputy representative Vathinee Jitjaturunt.
She said a school was the best place for students to be as long as they followed masking, hand washing and physical distancing mandates.
“We are reassured that the Fijian Government is ensuring safety measures are adapted in schools across the country to provide all students a safe and healthy learning environment,” Ms Jitjaturunt said.
“And UNICEF supports the Fijian Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts decision to reopen schools for all children and allow learning in a safe school environment.”
She also said UNICEF lauded the ministry for its decision and leadership in the reopening of schools.
“It is encouraging to see children in Year 8 to Year 11 joining the Year 12 and Year 13 students in returning to school on January 4, while those in early childhood education to Year Seven will return on January 10,” Ms Jitjaturunt said.
