The adherence to COVID-19 protocols in some basic schools, amidst the increasing cases of infections in the country, is not encouraging. Observation by the NCCE of the situation across the country indicates poor compliance by pupils. Whereas most pupils had their masks on at the time of the visit by the staff of the Commission, social distance protocol was not being observed by the pupils.
In most of the schools, the staff of the Commission also observed that besides the normal spacing in the classroom, the pupils wearing masks and those without masks were allowed to sit in the same classroom and even play together during break time. Some of the pupils had misplaced their facemasks during break time and others were seen exchanging sachet water among themselves.
Although the NCCE Staff advised the pupils and their teachers not to lose guard in the face of the increasing cases, a lot needs to be done to curtail and remind the pupil who forgetfully mingles and freely interacts with each other oblivious of their risk of exposure to COVID-19.
The Deputy Director of Communications and Cooperate Affairs, Mrs. Rita Tetteh, leading the team of staff from the Head Office, encouraged teachers to endeavour to ensure strict adherence to the protocols. She cautioned the pupils about the danger COVID-19 poses and the need for them to prevent it by faithfully observing the safety measures.
Since the disease is no respecter of persons, NCCE’s district officers have been engaging schools to sensitise pupils and teachers to properly wear and remove the facemask, as well as how to wash their hands with soap under running water and most importantly social distancing.
The Officers of the Commission, while explaining the symptoms, mode of transmission, and the effect of the disease on individuals, families, and the society at large, entreated them to strictly observe the COVID-19 safety protocols.
“Continue eating balanced diets, including fruits, vegetables, eggs, beans, and as well as drinking adequate water to boost your immune system. Protect yourself from COVID-19 and stay safe” Mrs. Rita Tetteh stressed.
With the use of a Cinema Van donated by the European Union to the NCCE under the ARAP Project, the team played COVID-19 Jingles to the pupils of the schools visited and displayed placards with messages on COVID-19 to further educate them on the pandemic. Schools toured including S.D.A Preparatory School at Bubuashie, La Wireless Cluster of Schools, La Bethel Presby Cluster Schools, Teshie Southern Cluster of Schools.
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