Authorities issue alert on heatwaves

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has urged schools and other learning institutions across the country to take immediate measures to protect learners, teachers and support staff from the ongoing heatwave.

In a press release, the ministry says the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has warned of high temperatures between October 18 and 23, with temperatures expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius in parts of the Southern Region.

The ministry says unusually high temperatures are also affecting the Northern and Central regions, as well as lakeshore areas.

It has directed schools to adjust timetables, relax uniform requirements where necessary and suspend or reschedule outdoor activities, including sports, assemblies and manual work, between 10 am and 3 pm.

Meanwhile, the ministry has also urged schools to ensure learners have access to safe drinking water, keep classrooms cool and well ventilated, and provide shaded areas to reduce exposure to excessive heat.