The Education Ministry has instructed schools to take additional measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19.
The new Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus was detected in the Maldives a few weeks back, and the number of positive cases in the country has been rising over the past week. As a result, HPA on Saturday night announced new measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
The Education Ministry's new guidelines for schools will come into effect when the new academic term starts next Sunday following the first term break.
In a circular sent to the ministry, schools were asked not to allow students and staff who traveled abroad during the break before a negative PCR test result was provided within five days of arrival in the Maldives.
Additionally, those who traveled to islands under HPA monitoring must undergo PCR testing within four days of returning to Male' and must not attend school before a negative result is received.
The ministry said students and staff must wear masks at all times on school premises. Handwashing facilities must also be available. Schools are mandated to enforce all measures.
