Government yesterday said it would take up to four weeks to open schools, firstly for examination-writing classes then gradually other classes in a phased approach.

Speaking before the Priscilla Misihairambwi-Mushonga-led committee on Primary and Secondary Education, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Tumisang Thabela, said they needed four weeks more for logistical purposes and planning so that they could be able to open schools in a phased approach.

“We need four weeks for logistical purposes so that we can open schools in phases, firstly considering the examination classes and we will ensure that there is training of school heads and teachers and provision of protective clothing,” she said.

Thabela said the first phase of opening would be focused mainly on Grade 7, “O” and “A” Level examination-writing students, while others will open on the next phase.

“The last phase will be opened to Grade 1 and 2, we will be looking at social distancing and infrastructure and resources in schools.