Government suspends face-to-face lectures

By Tafadzwa Chigandiwa

The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Techology Development has with immediate effect ordered all tertiary institutionsto suspend face to face lectures.

In a addressed to principals, Permanent Secretary of Higher and Tertiary Education, Fanuel Tagwira said teachers colleges, polytechnics and industrial training institutions must conduct their lectures online.

“The Ministry has noted with concern the increase in cases of Covid-19 recorded in our institutions, particularly the students in boarding as well as teaching and non-teaching staff.

“In this regard, may you ensure that all students who test positive be isolated and all those who test negative or not yet confirmed be quarantined at the institution, while non residents students should stop coming to college.

“Henceforth, face to face lectures are hereby banned with immediate effect. Teaching and learning should continue online,” reads the statement.

Government’s order comes after universities and colleges experienced Covid-19 outbreaks.

Midlands State University (MSU) Zvishavane campus recorded over 50 Covid-19 positive cases forcing the institution to close.

The move is part of government’s efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.

Zimbabwe has in the past days recorded a surge in both Covid-19 positive and death cases, resulting in President Emmerson Mnangagwa imposing Level 4 national lockdown.

As at Friday 2 July 2021, the country recorded 1 357 new Covid-19 positive cases.