Face-to-face classes suspended

Sunday Mail Reporter

FACE-to-face lectures at teacher’s colleges and polytechnics have been suspended with immediate effect following the recent spike in Covid-19 infections at higher learning institutions.

In a circular directed to all principals of public tertiary institutions, Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development secretary, Professor Fanuel Tagwira, directed the institutions to migrate to online classes.

“The Ministry has noted with concern the increase in cases of Covid-19 recorded in our institutions, particularly the students in boarding as well as teaching and non-teaching staff,” said Prof Tagwira.

“In this regard, may you ensure that all students who test positive be isolated and all those who test negative or not yet confirmed be quarantined at the institution, while non-resident students should stop coming into college.

“Henceforth, face-to-face lectures are hereby suspended with immediate effect. Teaching and learning has to continue online.”

Last week, Midlands State University (MSU) suspended face-to-face lectures at its Gweru and Zvishavane campuses after a number of students tested positive for Covid-19 on arrival at the institution.

Learning is proceeding online.

Meanwhile, the Government will this week review its decision to suspend the reopening of schools for the second term.

Schools’ reopening was deferred by two weeks pending a review of the Covid-19 situation.

The two-week moratorium will expire on Monday next week.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa told a recent post-Cabinet media briefing that a situational review will be undertaken before schools reopen.

“In view of the regional and local upsurge of cases, the nation is informed that Cabinet approved that the re-opening of schools and other learning institutions be delayed by 14 days,” she said.

“The Government will be monitoring the situation and a review would be made after two weeks.”