Mikheil Chkhenkeli: "The education system is fully prepared to resume the teaching process in schools"

"I would like to remind the public once again that on February 1, schools throughout the country, except Tbilisi, Rustavi and Kutaisi, will continue in-person" - said the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia, Mikheil Chkhenkeli after the Coordination Council meeting. As for the schools located in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Rustavi, at this stage the educational process is planned to resume on March 1. The epidemiological situation will be assessed again on February 15 and if the 7-day index rate drops to 4%, further alleviations will be considered by the government.

"We have a clear criterion. In particular, the 7% infection rate for seven days, i.e., if the 7-day infection rate drops to 4% by March 1, of course, we will consider further easing of regulations and opening earlier. This criterion is clearly defined and derives from healthcare experts. It is of paramount importance to take care of our children, and their health. “

Additionally, I would like to reiterate, that our education system is fully prepared to resume the educational process in-person. Also, those schools who will resume teaching in-person, will heavily adhere to strict medical regulations, and teachers will be systematically tested.  As for kindergartens, vocational schools and higher education institutions, the current regulations will be maintained until March 1. "