The spread of the novel coronavirus over the globe has forced almost 300 million students to stay at home, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said.
It’s “a figure without precedent,” said the Paris-based UN agency on Thursday, noting that 13 countries have shut schools nationwide, impacting almost 300 million children and youth who would normally attend pre-primary to upper-secondary classes.
A further nine countries have implemented localized school closures to prevent or contain the spread of COVID-19. Should these countries also order nationwide school closures, it would prevent an additional 180 million children and youth from attending school, it added.
“While temporary school closures as a result of health and other crises are not new unfortunately, the global scale and speed of the current educational disruption is unparalleled and, if prolonged, could threaten the right to education,” said UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
“We are working with countries to assure the continuity of learning for all, especially disadvantaged children and youth who tend to be the hardest hit by school closures,” she added.
Warning about the impact of school closures on learning achievement and educational performance, UNESCO pledged to provide immediate support to countries, including solutions for inclusive distance learning.
The UN organization will convene an emergency meeting of education ministers on March 10 to share responses and strategies to maintain the continuity of learning and assure inclusion and equity.
You may be interested
Done Deal: Falconets Forward Joins American Club Carolina Ascent
Webby - November 16, 2024Former Falconets forward Opeyemi Ajakaye has joined USL Super League club, Carolina Ascent FC on loan.Ajakaye linked up with Carolina…
Orban’s Lyon Face Provisional Relegation To Ligue 2 Amid Financial Woes
Webby - November 15, 2024Olympique Lyon the club of Nigerian striker Gift Orban, have been handed a provisional Ligue 1 relegation by theDNCG who…
Ghana Miss Out On AFCON 2025 Qualification After Draw With Angola
Webby - November 15, 2024Black Stars of Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for next year’s AFCON was ended after they played a 1-1 draw away…