Addnum Academy in Birch Acres recently took time out of its daily routine to raise awareness among learners about the coronavirus.
The learners created face masks, using paper towels and rubber bands, and put up a demo with the help of teachers.
Following the outbreak, the school provided buckets of water, sanitisers, tissues and soap for learners to regularly wash their hands.
Learners also encourage each other to wash their hands whenever they touch dirty surfaces and make sure their hands are wiped with tissue, which should be disposed of properly.
Elizabeth Kotze, the school’s principal, addressed the learners on preventing the spread of the coronavirus. She said the virus could easily spread through classes, sport activities and during lunch breaks.
“The reason why we are drumming this message is that it is essential to teach learners how to improve on their personal hygiene practices, hand washing in particular, in all schools. We are raising awareness of some of the safety tips as prescribed by the department of health.
“There is high awareness about the disease but little and poor precautionary measures in many schools, especially primary schools.
“We want to promote healthy environments in schools. We encourage schools to apply basic hygiene measures. Some safety tips include regular washing of hands, usage of sanitisers in schools, staying three metres away from anyone coughing and maintaining personal hygiene, among others,” said Kotze.
