President Akufo-Addo is urging students to adhere strictly to the Covid-19 preventive measures as they return to school.

In his 22nd update on measures taken to fight the coronavirus on Sunday, the President acknowledged the challenges that surfaced when children were directed to study from home at the peak of the pandemic in the country.

According to him, it causes a huge restrain for not only pupils but parents and teachers as well.

He, therefore, appealed to students to play their part by abiding by the safety protocols to stem the spread of the disease.

“I am pleading with you, please observe the Covid-19 protocols at all times. You must maintain the level of discipline and sense of responsibility to stop the virus from spreading in your schools and, for day students, at home, as well. Wear your masks at all times. Wash and sanitize your hands regularly. Protect yourself. Protect each other. Protect your teachers. Protect your parents.

“But, please, do not give me a reason to close down schools again. I pledge to do my best to keep your education going. I want you to assure me, your parents, your teachers and society as a whole, through your actions, that you will do your part as well,” he said.

President Akufo-Addo in his 21st address announced that schools will be reopening on January 15, following the closure of all educational institutions on March 15, 2020.

This was part of government’s plans to ensure that the Covid-19 which was spreading at an alarming rate in the country at the time was effectively managed.

Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has asked parents to not panic adding that sensitisation programmes have been undertaken to educate children and parents on how to avoid spreading or catching the virus.

“Heads of institutions, as well as their teachers, have undergone the requisite orientation on “Guidelines for school re-opening during COVID-19”, to enable them assist with compliance of students to the protocols.

“I have been encouraged by the preparations being made by many schools, in some cases, with the support of their old student associations and PTAs, in anticipation of the return on Monday. On our part, Government has also undertaken the fumigation and disinfection of schools, and the provision of sanitisers, masks, liquid soaps, Veronica Buckets, rolls of tissue paper, face shields for learners and staff with hearing impairments, and gloves for care givers and attendants, to schools across the country.”