Schools in Middle East need to fix post-COVID strategy: report

Schools in the Middle East will have to make fundamental changes to prepare for life after COVID-19.

That’s according to a new report by the management consulting firm Oliver Wyman, which calls for a carefully planned, phased approach to ensure smooth and safe operations.

It says that schools will need to train staff with enhanced roles for nurses, facilities managers and counsellors.

The report called 'Re-opening Schools Post Covid-19’, also highlights the importance of having appropriate physical spacing plans as well as proper procedures to "track, trace and test" pupils in case of a potential outbreak.

It recommends a three-phased approach, which includes a pre-opening, opening and post-opening framework.

“Schools remain critical as they are linked to parents re-joining the workforce and contributing to (or even remaining in) the economy. It is especially important to avoid further disruptions for graduating classes," said Jeff Youssef, Partner at Oliver Wyman.

"Still, the priority is to safeguard the lives and well-being of school communities. With structural measures, governments and principals can anticipate and prepare to reopen schools successfully by putting the necessary safeguards in place,” he added.