PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu has directed the reopening of schools, bars and nightclubs which were closed due to the outbreak of COVID 19 early this year.

In his speech on the occassion of the opening of the Fifth Session of the 12th National Assembly, the President said he had heard the cries of pupils, the cries of students, the cries of teachers and lecturers, the cries of parents, and the cries of owners of schools, including the ministries of general education and higher education concerning reopening of learning institutions.

“I announce the re-opening of all schools, colleges, and universities with caution between 14th september, 2020 and 28th september, 2020, subject to adherence to public health certification, guidelines, regulations, and also to allow for satisfactory, and adequate preparedness by all relevant authorities including parents and guardians,” President Lungu said.

The President also announced the the partial re-opening of bars, hight clubs and taverns from Fridays to Sundays with immediate effect, but with serious caution that all public health guidelines are strictly adhered to. These outlets shall operate from 18:00 hours to 23:00 hours.

“It is important that patrons adhere to these public health guidelines such as masking, social distancing, and sanitizing in order to protect themselves, their neighbours and the public,” he said.