ALL Honiara-based schools are now on an early vacation.
This came after a survey was conducted over the past days which warrants the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education Human Resource and Development (MEHD) Dr. Franco Rodie using his powers to called off the 2021 academic for all educational institutions in Honiara.
The early closure came about following last week’s protest that turned violent resulting in rioting, looting and burning down of homes, shops, bank, hardware, factory and schools.
Schools in the provinces remain unaffected by the latest advise, PS Rodie said in a circular issued to all Honiara schools.
This means they will continue with their academy year and close their schools on Friday 10th December.
The closure is based on the Education Act 1978 Section 20.
Dr. Rodie said based on a brief survey conducted to collect views on Education Assessment (EA) for early closer of schools in Honiara they receive majority support to close the school.
“This is because of the threat and fear that violence might continue in the country for coming days despite of engagement of foreign intervention to restore law and order back to the capital.
“The early closure will not affect schools in the provinces,” he said.
Around 100 Australian police and soldiers arrived in Honiara last week, along with a contingent of 50 from Papua New Guinea. Another 50 officers from Fiji were expected to arrive yesterday.
They are working alongside local police and have helped restore calm, although tensions remain high.
By LACHLAN EDDIE
Newsroom, Honiara
