Schools to re-open in two weeks: Health Minister

Plans are ahead to re-open schools in the next two weeks with priority given to schools with a student population below 200, Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said.

He said this was discussed at a meeting held at the Health Ministry today (15) regarding reopening of schools.

Minister Rambukwella said re-opening dates will be decided by the Education Ministry while health related guidelines will be issued by the Health Ministry.

“Re-opening of pre-schools and classes below sixth grade will also be given priority when re-opening schools.  There are about 5000 schools with less than 200 students. These schools will be re-opened first,” he said.

He said all academic staff and non-academic staff in schools are fully vaccinated and the Ministry is in the process of vaccinating those involved in transporting school children.

Secretary to the Ministry of Health Major General Dr. Sanjeewa Munasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Education Prof. Kapila Perera, Director General of Health Services Dr.Asela Gunewardena , senior officials of the Education and Health Ministries, representatives from the Government Medical Officers Association attended the meeting.