Vice President Faisal Naseem held an online discussion this afternoon to discuss the reopening of schools today following the temporary closure of all educational institutes during the COVID-19 lockdown period. The discussions were joined by executives from the Ministry of Education and representatives from all schools in the Maldives.

Speaking at the discussion, the Vice President acknowledged that teachers had displayed their mettle during the lockdown period by adapting to digital teaching mediums in order to sustain the education of our younger generations. He noted that teachers and principals shoulder great responsibilities and that educating the younger generations is one of the foremost priorities of the nation. He also requested feedback from the participants regarding the first day in school in the 'new normal', inquiring on the effectiveness of the preparations made.

The participating educators stated that, as per the protocols set by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the administrators created and followed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) which detailed the procedures under which the students would be allowed to return to school premises. These measures include: creating markers 3ft apart on the premises; installing hand washing and sanitizing facilities in convenient locations; and arranging teacher and parent chaperones at different areas of the schools to further help students follow the 'new normal' rules. They noted that attendance numbers today had been similar to those before COVID-19, indicating the confidence that parents had in the school. They further highlighted that today's success would not have been possible without the diligent support of the Ministry of Education.

The Vice President expressed his satisfaction with the success of the preparations made to welcome students back to school premises and offered his sincere gratitude to all persons and institutions involved.