Yet to complete Covid-19 tests, some Dubai schools push back reopening

Some schools in Dubai are pushing back the resumption of face-to-face classes as a number of teachers and staff are yet to undergo Covid-19 PCR tests, Khaleej Times has learnt. As a result, they will be holding online classes for the first few days, until screenings are completed.

Last week, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) made it mandatory for all Dubai school staff to get screened for Covid-19 prior to reopening tomorrow, August 30.

In a previous statement the regulating body had said: "All school staff members are required to carry out a Covid-19 PCR test prior to school reopening for the new academic year/term."

According to a KHDA circular sent to schools, staff members will be allowed to enter campuses only after obtaining negative virus test results.

School heads told Khaleej Times that they have mapped out their reopening plans based on all precautionary measures.

Mala Mehra, principal of Central School Dubai, said: "We will be going for our Covid-19 tests tomorrow (August 30). We are around 200 members who will have to undergo these screenings. So until the time we get our results, our distance learning programme will be in full swing."

Liyakathali, senior academic supervisor at New Indian Model School, said they will also be holding online classes for the meantime.

"We went for the Covid-19 screening earlier but there was a long queue, and it couldn't be completed. We have been issued a new date and a new test centre, so on Monday, all teaching and non-teaching staff will be going for the tests. We are holding online classes in the interim," Liyakathali said.

Amity School Dubai will be reopening on September 1, as "staff members are still awaiting results of their Covid-19 PCR tests, which we will receive before the first day of school", said its principal, Sangita Chima. "Therefore, we will not be holding classes on August 30 and 31."

nandini@khaleejtimes.com