Minister: Why the need for student survey
The Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts is conducting a survey to identify the 100,000 students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and Tropical Cyclone Harold to assist them in transportation.
The assistance is, especially targeted for those travelling by bus, Rural Service Licence (RSL) vehicles and by sea or river.
Minister Rosy Akbar said the ministry expected numbers by early next week because teachers were still compiling data.
“We need data to understand the situation to plan forward,” she said.
She said the rationale behind the survey was to gather data on how many families had reduced hours of work and how many families have had terminations from work. “Apart from textbooks and learning resources, the ministry’s major focus is on transport assistance,” she said.
Additionally, faith-based organised were coming forward to offer help in the form of meals for students. This, she said was also why the data was important.
“The ministry is not responsible for providing lunches to the students, but we are hopeful to share data to the organisations which
I met last week while discussing about meal donations,” she said. She said that come Friday, the number of students, who need meals while at school, would be available.
“I am aware that some faith-based organisations have started with the initiative,” Ms Akbar said.
She has also received calls from generous individuals last week who have shown interest in providing lunches to students.
“Those who are in need will be assisted and those who can afford then I advise parents to ensure that the children come to school fully prepared.”