Classes in Artsakh Universities to Resume from September 1, Schools from September 14

Due to the pandemic situation, educational activities in general education, vocational training, and secondary vocational institutions in Artsakh will commence on September 14, 2020, while classes in universities will start on September 1. This was stated by the Minister of Education, Science and Culture of Artsakh, Lusine Ghahakyan, during a discussion on the topic "The Impact of the Coronavirus on the Implementation of the Right to Education: Challenges and Solutions."

The Minister announced that first graders attending general education schools will go to school for 1 to 1.5 hours on September 1, in recognition of Knowledge Day. "We believe that students should not wear masks during the learning process; currently, children under 10 years old will definitely not wear masks. The questions regarding older students are still being discussed. Classes will be held six days a week for 35 minutes each. The organization of mass events in educational institutions will be prohibited. The activities of extracurricular groups organized by the school will be suspended if they truly pose a disruption. For all schools with over 100 students that have been able to arrange extracurricular activities, we will continue to permit such activities. Temporarily, the activities of groups organized by educational institutions with more than 100 students will be suspended. Besides, these schools will operate not only in double shifts but also in single shifts. Meetings and gatherings in educational institutions must be conducted remotely or in open spaces, maintaining anti-epidemic measures," noted the Minister.

Regarding universities, Ghahakyan mentioned that in Shushi Technology University and Artsakh State University, in-person teaching will take place. In case of a rise in recorded pandemic indicators, a transition to online learning will be made. Shushi Technology University has also resolved issues concerning transportation.