Public school teachers have given the authorities a four-day ultimatum to provide them with Covid-19 risk allowances, or they will not return to class.

The development comes amid preparations to reopen schools on Monday after a five-month coronavirus induced closure.

One of the concerned teachers, Steve Nzolewa said that the teachers will have no option but to boycott work if the authorities do not meet their demands within the set time.

Deputy Education Minister Madalitso Wirima  has since advised the teachers to exercise patience regarding their demand for Covid-19 risk allowances.