Let schools reopen on January 4 as planned
What you need to know:
- The country has learnt vital lessons since the schools reopened partially for Grade Four, Standard Eight and Form Four.
In terms of economics of education, the longer the learners stay in the school system, either through repetition or an extended calendar, the higher the loss of future incomes.
When the government announced that schools will reopen in January, it was based on extensive consultations with stakeholders, including faith-based organisations.
Earlier dates that had been proposed were shelved because it was felt that risks of coronavirus infections were still too high and much preparation had not been done to allow learners back in class. Yet, all along, there had been a clamour to reopen schools because continued closure has devastating effects on the learners.
Evidence already indicates rising cases of teenage pregnancy. In terms of economics of education, the longer the learners stay in the school system, either through repetition or an extended calendar, the higher the loss of future incomes.
Against this background, the new push by the National Council of Churches of Kenya to delay reopening of schools is ill-advised. Learners have suffered enough being at home. In fact, many may not resume studies altogether, exacerbating the drop-out crisis.
Coronavirus infections may be on the rise, but it is now a reality that the world has to live with, for there is no known cure in sight yet. It would be counter-intuitive to keep learners out any longer yet people have moved on with their lives.
The country has learnt vital lessons since the schools reopened partially for Grade Four, Standard Eight and Form Four. The government should hire more teachers and release funds to schools early enough to enable them expand teaching and learning facilities as well as provide personal protection gear.
Let schools reopen in January as planned.
