KUALA LUMPUR – Schools have been directed to continue online learning for another 25 days until the mid-term break next month, said Education Minister Datuk Mohd Radzi Md Jidin.
The ministry will make further announcements following the said break between July 16/17 and 24/25, depending on the Covid-19 situation.
Radzi said the online learning directive applies to all schools registered under the ministry, including private, international and expatriate institutions.
Public school students are currently in their mid-year break, from May 28/29 to June 12/13.
“When or if we resume physical classes, the priority will be given to students facing major public exams. They will be allowed to return to school first when deemed suitable,” said Radzi.
The 2021 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination will be held next February for the science (oral and practical) paper, with others to be conducted in March.
As for appeals to register for other institutions – boarding schools, religious secondary schools, vocational colleges, technical schools and special needs schools – the results will be announced on June 8, while online registration will be opened on June 13 (Group A) and June 14 (Group B).
Radzi added that more than 70,000 teachers have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, and encouraged those yet to get the jab to turn up for their appointments.
“The ministry will issue a reminder to teachers for them to attend their inoculation appointments.”
On the distribution of 150,000 laptops under the Cerdik programme, he said 12,887 units have been given out to 95 schools nationwide, with 40,290 units to be distributed by June 12.
“The remaining 96,823 units, God willing, will be distributed by the end of September.”
On DidikTV, he said the government will continue to run the education network for 15 hours a day.
“I hope this will help students with internet issues follow their lessons via DidikTV, which carries programmes presented by experienced teachers.”
To address gaps in online teaching, he said, teachers are undergoing courses to boost their information and communications technology skills when possible.
“Parents are also invited to provide feedback and suggestions to teachers, schools and the ministry.” – The Vibes, June 6, 2021