“The first guideline was issued on June 4 last year, just before we reopened schools but once schools started, there were new issues to consider and we updated them accordingly. The guideline also stressed on the need to maintain the confidentiality of students, teachers and staff infected with the virus, Habibah said. The challenge with the ministry now is students’ compliance with the guidelines, especially among the younger ones (in primary schools), ” she said. Emphasising students and teachers’ safety, teachers aged 50 and above who were not comfortable serving as examination invigilators would not be forced to take up the role, she said. From the survey we conducted, we noticed that there are different timetables and hours used to teach students.

Source: The Star February 18, 2021 23:27 UTC