MC-Zambia Safely Reopens After COVID-19 Closure

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MC-ZAMBIA SAFELY REOPENS AFTER COVID-19 CLOSURE

 

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NEW YORK, NY, July 29, 2020 –MC-Zambia, the local affiliate organization of New York-based MCW Global (Miracle Corners of the World), safely reopens after a temporary closure due to the coronavirus. During the second week of March 2020, MC-Zambia closed its doors to prevent the spread of the coronavirus as the team shifted to working remotely to develop a response plan to support the community during the pandemic. On June 17th, the Ministry of Higher Education announced that TEVETA institutions could reopen on July 1st.

After the announcement, MC-Zambia partially reopened on July 16. The reopening was initiated by a group of students from Magoba Primary School that used MC-Zambia’s computer labs to take their school exams. IT students also returned to the center on July 16th and 17th to complete mid-year exams. As students returned to the center, they were trained on guidelines and safety measures for operating on campus during the pandemic, including wearing a mask and routinely washing hands.

ICT and Tailoring courses resumed on a different schedule to enforce social distancing. Classes are now divided into two sessions that take place in the morning and afternoon.

MC-Zambia is one of the few centers to reopen in the community as most schools do not have the resources or trained staff to host classes safely. The toll of the pandemic continues to worsen for many other schools in rural areas like Chanyanya since they lack disinfectants and other cleaning materials to safely reopen. MC-Zambia aims to support the community during the pandemic by making computer labs available for schools to hold exams. The organization further functions as a resource by providing residents with the option to gain ICT and Tailoring accreditation during a time of immense hardship.

MC-Zambia's reopening has been conducted with the following precautions:

  • Temperature checks at the point entry for every guest visiting the center
  • Handwashing facilities at all entrances must be used, including lecture rooms, labs, and administration offices
  • Restrictions on the number of onsite visitors
  • Social clubs and amenities will be closed to encourage social distancing
  • Regular cleaning and disinfection of buildings and surrounding areas

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