Cleaning schools a must

15 July 2010 08:00 am

By Lakna Paranamanna


Reserving half an hour off two days each week to clean school grounds and classrooms has been made compulsory in every school by a circular 2010/22 issued today by the Education Ministry to prevent the spread of Dengue.

Education Ministry Secretary Sunil S. Sirisena said, “It is important for the schools to contribute to prevalent National Dengue prevention programs that are being carried out throughout the country.”

Speaking further he pointed out that as the rainy season triggers mosquito breeding rate, it is essential for the school administrations to ensure that school grounds as well as the surrounding environment is kept clean and free of mosquito breeding grounds.

The circular has also addressed the importance of maintaining a clean environment in schools as well as other educational institutions such as National Colleges and Education offices whilst maintaining proper waste management systems.

The circular expresses the importance of implementing a system where students obtain the opportunity to educate their communities regarding Dengue prevention. Additionally, each school is also advised to appoint a committee to look into the dengue prevention activities of the school.