Maldives is planning to open schools in the country from early next year and officials from several concerned agencies have been holding discussions in this regard, Sun news reported. 

Officials from the Ministry of Education, the COVID-19 Advisory Board, and the Health Protection Agency met on Thursday to discuss the measures that could be put in place to restart schools next year. In the meeting, they have also deliberated on challenges that could arise from opening schools. 

The Maldives had closed schools and colleges in March this year in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities, however, allowed higher classes in schools and colleges to start educational activities in Male city but for other lower grades, classes are still being held only through virtual mode. 

The first semester has concluded on 3 December and now the government is focussing to allow classes in schools from the next year for the second semester. 

Earlier, the Maldives’ parliament speaker Mohammed Nasheed had said children would face losses if schools are kept close for long.