Education Ministry says everyone associated with schools will be required to be fully vaccinated

Minister for Education, Premila Kumar says when students return to school, they need to be protected and this means that along with the students and teachers, all ancillary staff, canteen operators and others who are associated with schools will also be required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

Kumar says Heads of Schools must ensure that anyone visiting schools for any reason must be fully vaccinated.

The Regional Adviser, WHO South-East Asia Regional Office, Doctor Rajesh Mehta says that it is more likely for transmission to occur from adults to students so we must get all adults who visit schools to be vaccinated.

The Education Minister says all transport providers and corner shops that students frequently visit should also ensure that their staff are fully vaccinated.

Kumar says the safety and well-being of our students are paramount and the Ministry will continue to encourage everyone associated with schools to get fully vaccinated, not only for their safety and that of their families, but also for all children whom they will come into contact with.

She says this is not only the responsibility of one person or one group, but that of all Fijians.