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Somalia Education Cluster Note On COVID-19 Preparedness and Response
Somalia Education Cluster Note On COVID-19 Preparedness and Response
Somalia Education Cluster Note On COVID-19 Preparedness and Response
One preparedness measure to minimize the spread of deceases, is to close schools as a means to limit points
of contact. As of 9th March, 29 countries have closed their schools (either at a national level or localized level)
(UNESCO). However, closing schools come with a number of implications which need to be planned for
including provision of continued learning opportunities for school children. It is a government decision
whether or not to close schools as well as determining the duration and coverage (national/localized). See
below section on adverse implications of school closure compiled by UNESCO.
In response to the escalating COVID-19 situation, below are suggested key activities for three phases of
preparedness and response for the Education sector:
Phase 1: schools remain open
• Enhance awareness and implementation of prevention measures (IEC materials and school guidelines)
• Enhance general hygiene promotion
• Ensure clean water and soap is available at schools and incorporate hand washing routines throughout
the day
• Train teachers on detecting symptoms and ensure referral pathways to health clinics are established
• Enhanced PSS activities for school children (fear of decease/fear of the unknown/family members hit
by COVID-19 etc)
• Consider the need for community dialogues or other community engagement to address concerns
parents might have in sending their children to school
Phase 2: schools are closed
• Ensure wide dissemination of information about school closure and duration (if known)
• Provide distance learning opportunities (e.g. pre-recorded radio lessons, online education etc)
• If possible facilitate Small learning groups (5-10 students)
• Consider potential implications for exams should the school closure extend till May
Resources:
Materials on disease outbreak response in Education sector:
INEE: https://inee.org/collections/coronavirus-covid-19
Global Education Cluster: https://educationcluster.app.box.com/s/760c172yoyc7505t6uhj8hy6sgejcz2x