(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)
Published: Fri 26 Aug 2022, 5:53 PM
Last updated: Fri 26 Aug 2022, 10:43 PM
Students in Dubai do not require producing a PCR negative test upon their return to school after the two-month long summer break.
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), in its latest guideline, has stated that there is no COVID-19 testing requirement this year.
The circular sent to schools also stipulates that Covid-19 patients (students) must be isolated for 10 days while social distancing rules and face masks in indoor areas continue to be mandatory.
Dubai
Nargish Khambatta, Principal GEMS Modern Academy, Dubai and Vice President, Education GEMS Education, says,“Schools in Dubai are no longer required to make PCR testing mandatory for staff and students above the age of 12, nor to have their vaccination certificates ready as proof of vaccination. PCR tests are not even required for parents and guests, and neither are temperature checks. Our staff have been in school for almost a week now and are in good health.”
She adds,“Masks will continue to be part of our school's first line of defence. While they are mandated indoors, they are not necessary to be worn outdoors – this will be useful, especially for days when the heat index will be conducive for outdoor play. Regular sanitisation, especially for high-touch, high-traffic areas, will continue. Social distancing is recommended but not mandated, and as educators, we particularly like this recommendation - schools will take sensible precautions to keep their communities safe without the worry of a 'fine' culture.”
But rules in other emirates are different, with students having to undergo a PCR test to return to class on the first day of the academic year/term.
Abu Dhabi
Abhilasha Singh, Principal, Shining Star International, Abu Dhabi, says,“We are super excited to welcome our students back to school. The new PCR mandate by ADEK is the requirement of 96 hours PCR negative for all staff and students above 12 years. The Al Hosn app should be green for parents and other visitors to enter the school premises.”
ALSO READ:
- Back to school in UAE: 75% of students have vitamin D deficiency, eye problems, say hospitals
- Back to school in UAE: Families prepare kids during last weekend before new term
Sharjah
Dr Arogya Reddy Ambassador School Sharjah says,“SPEA mandates that children who are 12 and above need to produce a negative PCR test valid for up to a maximum period of 96 hours. Quarantine rules for Covid positive patients are more or less the same. Asymptomatic close contacts will remain in quarantine for three days. Parents must show the green pass if they wish to enter the school.”
MENAFN26082022000049011007ID1104763573
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.