Pupils turned away

NOEL IYOMBWA writes AS examination classes opened on Monday, face masks and hand sanitizer remain a challenge in some schools in rural areas. A check at some selected schools in the outskirts of Lusaka, in six miles, Katuba constituency found that some schools have not received face masks and hand sanitizer for learners. Scores of eager pupils at Shifwakula Secondary School were turned away for not wearing a mask. A teacher who declined to be named said that majority of learners were turned away because most parents think that government has provided face masks and sanitizers. He called on Government through the Ministry of Education to consider donating the necessary equipment to the school. And at Naluyando Primary school, Grade Seven classes did not resume. A Parent Teachers Association member Joshua Kamiya said that only a few pupils who reported for classes did not have face masks but that there was a staff shortage. Dr Kamiya who is veterinary doctor said that he had donated a thermometer and disclosed that neither the head teacher only identified as Ms Daka nor some others had reported for work. Meanwhile, Kabangwe Seventh Day Adventist church Dorcas Mothers donated more than 400 masks to Shifwakula and 500 to Naluyanda primary schools. As well as hand sanitizers, washing dishes and soaps to the two Primary schools. Receiving the donations, Chunga ward councilor KangwaKayola has said that there is need for more churches to come on board and help government in the fight against Covid-19 as Schools open. Ms. Kayola said that the fight against Corona virus cannot be fought by government alone, but different stakeholders should get on board and alleviating government efforts. She said that parents should also take a leading role in ensuring that learners are safe whenever leaving homes. The civic leader commended the Seventh day Adventists for the donation and called on other churches to emulate the SDA adding that Covid 19 affects everyone. And Shifwakula primary School head teacher Grace Kalebukasaid that pupils who do not have face masks are turned away by the school authorities. She said that most of the learners at the school are vulnerable children who cannot afford face masks and sanitizers. And leader of the Seventh day Adventist, Dorcas mother’s mothers Memory Chembe said that the church was proud to donate to the two schools. The Sun