Education Ministry Cancels Carnival-Related Social Gatherings, Parents React

The Ministry of Education has sent out a communique to schools across the country to cancel the yearly “come as you like” event which is observed the Friday before the carnival holidays. Acting Chief Education Officer, Dr. Jeffrey Blaize, said the annual event is cancelled because of the constant risks of COVID-19 transmission.

According to the memo, the education ministry thanked school principals for their concerted efforts at fighting the pandemic, and urged them to heighten their watchfulness while cancelling any forms of social events in schools.

“We wish to remind schools of the importance of continued vigilance with student engagement, particularly during the carnival season,” the communique states. “Schools are advised that activities during this period attracting large gatherings, including those held on the Friday before carnival, should be suspended. Sports day activities, particularly at schools with large student population, should also be reconsidered.”

Some parents contended that school authorities did not inform them of the cancellation of the “come as you like” event in time, a situation which made them to have purchased costumes among other major preparations. Blaize responded that the fact that all social events in 2020 and 2021 in the country are cancelled is an indication that schools couldn’t organize or hold any social gatherings of any sorts. He said this is to protect students, teachers, school employees, and even parents.

“A decision has been taken as a nation and we all understand why; and I think we need to embrace that decision and unite in our fight [against the pandemic],” Blaize said. “As we have reminded schools, it is sensible; and…we don’t want the semblance of carnival. If our adults are not doing it, then why should our students be doing it at school? It is just not right.”

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