NATIONAL: Why schools should be reopened globally —UNICEF

THE United Nations Children’s Fund has said the closure of schools due to Covid-19 pandemic will have adverse effects on the psyche and general wellbeing of children globally.

Warning against closure of schools despite spike in the number of Covid-19 cases globally, UNICEF said children are impressionable and in their formative years adding that disruptions to any aspect of their lives would be felt for generations to come.

The agency added that the number of out-of-school children is set to rise by 24 million to a level not yet seen in years and to a level it has fought so hard to overcome if nations across the world keep schools shut.

It stressed that schools, despite their mode of operation, are not drivers of the coronavirus.
However, in a statement on Tuesday, UNICEF, lamented the closure of schools across the globe despite overwhelming evidence that schools were not drivers of the pandemic

“In the case of lockdowns, schools must be among the first to reopen once authorities start lifting restrictions.

“Catch-up classes should be prioritised to ensure that children who have been unable to learn remotely are not left behind.

“If children are faced with another year of school closures, the effects will be felt for generations to come,” UNICEF warned.