SCHOOLS in the Western Province are advised to spare their school grants as the country enters into an extended state of Emergency (SOE).
In an address to educational institutions in the province, Chief Education Officer Hopeful Piosasa advised all school principals and headteachers in the province against mismanaging of government grants.
He said that according to data a ninety-nine percent (90%) of schools in the province have received their government grants.
The payments of grants had been made out from late January into early February of this year 2020.
But he continued to explain that with the closure of schools in the country, it is not expected that any spending should be made at all during this time.
“Should the closure of schools come to an end and it is found that accounts are empty, it would be clear the evidence of misuse.
CEP Piosasa said it would rather be useful to spare grant money in the case the country, unfortunately, face confirmation of a coronavirus case.
“This would definitely be seen as an emergency situation and the use of your grants in the expatriation of staff and family members could see that you are in relative safety.”
He also clarified that all government funds have been redirected into emergency committee tasks and efforts against the viral pandemic.
Therefore should the lift of school closures be effected, it would also mean a possible delay or cut in future government grants for your schools.
Mr. Hopeful Piosasa concluded in saying that the ability to remain strict and resourceful with what they currently have now will determine their ability to stay afloat in the coming months.
By TERENCE ZIRU
In Gizo
