Haze: Schools may switch to home-based learning based on API readings
PETALING JAYA: The operating status of schools nationwide will be determined daily based on haze readings, with state education directors authorised to decide whether schools continue operating as usual or switch to home-based teaching and learning (BDR-PdPR).
The Education Ministry (MOE) said state education directors (PPN) had been directed to establish Haze Monitoring Task Committees involving state education departments (JPN) and district education offices (PPD) to monitor Air Pollutant Index (API) readings at specified times each day.
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“Based on the information and data obtained by the committee, the PPN will determine the status of school operations, whether schools will operate as usual or implement BDR-PdPR,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry said the move followed concerns raised by parents and guardians about the health of school children amid haze affecting several areas nationwide.
It said PPNs would announce the operating status of schools in Group A states by 2.45pm every Saturday, while announcements for Group B states would be made by 2.45pm every Sunday.
“The announcement will also facilitate arrangements for students who need to return to or leave their boarding schools,” it said.
On other days, PPNs will announce the status of school operations by 5.45pm, based on the latest API readings released by the Department of Environment (DOE).
The ministry urged parents and guardians to monitor official announcements closely for any changes to school operations.
“Cooperation and attention from all parties, particularly parents and guardians, are sought to ensure they remain alert to announcements made by PPNs through the official communication channels of JPN, PPD and the respective schools,” it said.
