STUDENTS in Bahrain will re-enter classrooms later this month after more than two years of remote learning imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Around 80,000 private school students will resume classes in the next few days, while more than 147,000 government school pupils will return on September 7.
Government school teachers will begin work on September 1 after a two-month break.
The Education Ministry announced earlier this month that students of all levels must attend classes in person during the 2022-23 academic year.
It said that it will be mandatory for all pupils to attend kindergarten, schools and universities as well as public and private educational institutions.
Schools across the kingdom suspended in-person classes on February 26, 2020, following the outbreak of the coronavirus (Covid-19), and most institutions switched to remote learning.
Schools reopened for limited attendance in October 2020, however, in-person classes were suspended again in January 2021. Classes resumed in March before closing again in May 2021 due to a sharp spike in Covid-19 cases.
Physical attendance increased as schools opened their doors in September 2021, though parents had the option of choosing between in-person and remote education.
Meanwhile, the Health Ministry has released an awareness video on schoolbag specifications, with guidelines on the most suitable backpacks for each age range, height and weight, besides other physical safety standards.
Schools Affairs director general Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak, who also heads the Education Ministry’s executive committee, confirmed that all assigned teams were working towards ensuring a successful academic year.
“More than 147,000 students are back to government schools on September 7 and prior to the date, they will be presented with books after stocks are made available according to numbers in each grade and school,” he said.
“This year will witness the reopening of canteens and cafeterias in government schools as it was before the outbreak of Covid-19.
“All school activities, visits, field trips, musical and theatrical events, competitions, besides physical education sessions will resume.”
He added that detailed calendar, including exams and holidays, will be posted in the next few days.
Meanwhile, Education Ministry Under-Secretary for policies, strategies and performance Nawal Al Khater said preparation was going as planned in schools.
“We are following up maintenance work that includes fixing and replacing air-conditioners, Internet and telephones in schools,” Ms Al Khater said.
“We are also ensuring proper and punctual transportation besides providing the necessary financial support.
“Our teams will be on hand throughout the school day for assistance.”
The GDN reported earlier this month that maintenance work was being carried out in 40 schools besides revamps to five institutions in partnership with the Works Ministry.
Arabic language teacher at Future Primary School for Girls Amal Al Tairi said they were eager and ready to welcome students.
“The compulsory back-to-school rule will help us provide the best assistance to students and help them reach their potential while nurturing their skills,” she said.
“Multiple initiatives are being planned including digital books to enhance student experience.
“Parents and children will be informed about specifications for schoolbags and what students should carry with them prior to the beginning of the academic year.
“Children should carry bags that are suitable for their height and weight. The new specifications aim to ensure they are not injured by heavy rucksacks.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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