Students To Know Fate July 29 As FG Makes Final Decision On Reopening Of Schools

The federal government on Friday said it would make final decision on reopening of schools for categories on July.

This is part of the outcome of the meeting held by the representatives of the federal government from the ministry of education with the West African Examination Council (WAEC).

On the possibility of getting the students of unity schools to partake in the external examination, The government says WAEC is mulling postponement of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The federal ministry of education made this known in a statement on Friday.

Discussions will continue with four other countries to fix a new date for the examination, director of information at the ministry, Ben Goong, quoted minister of state for education Emeka Nwajiuba.

WASSCE had been scheduled to begin on August 4, but the federal government announced that it would withdraw students of federal government colleges from the examination owing to COVID-19 fears.

By the same token, Goong said schools have till July 29, 2020, to ensure that necessary arrangements are put in place and facilities are ready for resumption in line with the guidelines issued by the ministry of education for safe reopening of places of learning.

The ministry said a decision would be taken after the July 29 deadline on resumption of schools for all categories of learners, adding that it had met and consulted with relevant stake holders.

“We have consulted widely with stakeholders in the sector, including commissioners of education in all the states of the federation, the Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria,(APSON), National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools,(NAPPS), Provosts of Colleges of Education, Rectors of Polytechnics, Vice-Chancellors of Universities, some State Governors, and development partners,” Nwajiuba was quoted as saying.

“On WAEC, we met with WAEC on Monday and have agreed to further consult with four other countries on new examination date.

“We appreciate the concern shown by all stakeholders and note the divergent views expressed on the matter.

“Parents should rest assured that the safety of our students and teachers is paramount as we work assiduously towards the speedy reopening of our schools for the exit classes to take external examinations.”