COVID-19: Free PCR tests for Abu Dhabi students returning to in-person classes

Abu Dhabi's Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) says COVID-19 PCR tests will be provided free of charge on a specific date for each school, until December 31 at designated SEHA screening centres.

In a statement on Monday, ADEK said students aged over 12 years old who plan to physically attend next term are required to present a negative test result prior to joining face-to-face classes.

PCR testing is also mandatory for teachers and school staff.

Students of Determination and full-time distance learning students are exempt from taking the test.

The decision is the result of ADEK’s extensive coordination with health authorities in the Emirate to ensure a safe return to school for all.

It follows the Abu Dhabi Emergency Crisis and Disasters Committee and ADEK announcement last month which stated that private school students in the emirate will have the option to return to face-to-face education for the next academic term, beginning on January 3, 2021.

ADEK has already sent Private and Charter schools across the Emirate a PCR testing schedule in order to ensure students, teachers and staff avail the free Covid-19 PCR test on time.

A valid Emirates ID and a dedicated school code must be presented at the testing centre.

Parents may contact schools to obtain the code, location, time and date details as per the schedule provided by ADEK.

Students, teachers and staff who choose to take the PCR test at an alternative date or location may do so at a private or public healthcare facility at their own expense, in which case the PCR test must be taken from December 21 onwards.

Periodic testing will continue for teachers and school staff.

ADEK says a schedule for those tests with location, date and timing details will be shared with schools in due course.

ترغب بالعودة للتعليم الصفي في المدرسة للفصل الدراسي القادم؟ إذا كان هذا هو خيارك وعمرك 12 عاماً فما فوق، فلا تفوّت فرصة الحصول على فحص كوفيد-19 مجاني. تم تحديد مراكز ومواعيد فحص لكل مدرسة اعتباراً من 21 ديسمبر. pic.twitter.com/KF8RAnIkRE

— Department of Education & Knowledge - Abu Dhabi (@ADEK_tweet) December 21, 2020