Just In: Schools To Close On 24 March As Zim Steps Up Coronavirus Response
The government has ordered the closure of all schools, colleges and universities on Tuesday, 24 March 2020 as a precaution against outbreak and spread of coronavirus.
The move follows outrage from parent and members of the public after President Mnangagwa suspended all public gatherings of more than 100 people on Tuesday. The ban extends to weddings, church meetings and sporting activities. In the same announcement, the government had decided to leave schools, colleges and universities open since there were only two weeks left in the term.
However, the government reconsidered its decision to keep the schools opened after parents and members of the public had complained against the decision saying that schools typically had more than 100 pupils. This meant that the pupils and teachers would be exposed to the virus.
Below is the press statement from the President's office.
NEW DATES FOR CLOSING OF SCHOOLS AND TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
Following concerns from parents, as well representations by the educational sect, Government has decided that all schools and tertiary institutions (colleges, polytechnics and universities) will now close on Tuesday, 24 March 2020, as a precaution against the outbreak and spread of Coronavirus. While Zimbabwe has not recorded any cases of the virus to date, Government has thought it prudent to err on the side of caution, more so in respect of teaching institutions where human concentration and contact is expectedly high. The decision is part of the general precautionary measures the country is taking in light of the worldwide outbreak and rapid spread of the Coronavirus.
As I announced on Tuesday, 17th March 2020, Government will advise on dates for the reopening of all teaching institutions in the country once the threat of the virus is adjudged to have receded.
The date of 24th March should allow for an orderly closure of our institutions, and for parents to arrange for the safe travel of pupils and students.
Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa
PRESIDENT OF ZIMBABWE.
19/03/20
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