PNG Authorities say Schools will Resume as directed

Papua New Guinea Education Minister, Jimmy Uguro says all schools will resume next Monday, after warning individuals not to use the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse to penalize school's or children's education.

PNG Education Minister Uguro: Parliament Photo 

He said this in response to calls by teachers nationwide demanding the Government to delay the resumption of schools. 

Pandemic Controller, David Manning had announced that all schools will recommence lessons next Monday but under very strict COVID-19 protocols.

The Teacher's Association National Management Committee met to present a 24-hour ultimatum to Minister Uguro and his Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra. 

Among their demands, the Committee has called for a delay to the resumption of the schools Term Two, put on hold the auto suspension of 32,200 teachers, and the payment of risk allowances for teachers. 

The Education Minister told NBC News that the government has acted responsibly in encouraging a nationwide isolation and asking schools to stay home for close to four weeks.

 Mr. Uguro says school's will resume next Monday and urged schools, teachers, parents and guardians to observe and promote all COVID-19 protocols. 

Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra also expressed similar sentiment, saying schools will resume on Monday.  

NBC News / PNG Today

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