Schools in Abu Dhabi are set to reopen in September 2020 for the upcoming academic year with new health protocols for teachers, students including a mandatory requirement of a COVID-19 test prior to school opening this September 2020.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has announced a list of protocols that outline health and safety guidelines following the country’s preventive measures against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
“All staff and students in Abu Dhabi must undergo Covid-19 testing prior to being authorised to return to the school premises. Details concerning coverage, schedules, and the process will be announced at a later time in conjunction with relevant authorities,” according to the document sent by ADEK to schools across Abu Dhabi.
RELATED STORY: Entire class to go on quarantine in case one student tests positive for COVID-19 in Dubai
ADEK formulated all guidelines together with the thoughts and sentiments of schools, parent representatives, teachers and the relevant authorities to make these policies as comprehensive as possible. The policies are framed around four main dimensions: safe operations, teaching and learning, staff and student wellbeing, and community support.
“We are committed to ensuring the safest possible return to in-classroom education for students and teachers and the guidelines, aligned with global best practice, take into account every aspect of school operations. The guidelines also put in place mechanisms to support the wellbeing of everyone in the Abu Dhabi education community,” said HE Amer Al Hammadi, ADEK Undersecretary.
READ ON: Students under 6 not required to wear face masks in Dubai schools
The guidelines highlight three basic preventive measures which include the following:
– Social distancing, where schools are requested to organize time and space to minimize interactions between people;
– Protective equipment, where schools are requested to install appropriate equipment, screens, partitions and other protective measures and;
– Disinfection and hygienic practices, where schools are advised to maintain the highest hygiene standards, with schools requested to regularly disinfect and clean all areas.
