Hanoi:Boarding school students are being advised to remain in their hostels during school closures due to haze, as long as conditions are safe and their welfare is ensured, according to Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina stated in a Facebook post that this recommendation aims to prevent parents from facing the logistical challenges of repeatedly picking up and dropping off their children during successive closures. She emphasized the importance of announcing school closure decisions as early as possible to help parents plan accordingly.

Fadhlina explained that Air Pollutant Index (API) readings vary by time and location, necessitating area-specific decisions on school closures. The broader management of haze involves the Department of Environment, which monitors air quality and addresses pollution, while the Health Ministry provides public health guidance.

The Education Ministry is prioritizing student safety and school operation management based on current conditions. Fadhlina also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the impact of school disruptions on learning, and efforts to address learning loss are ongoing, especially considering the varying access to home-based teaching and learning facilities among students.

The ministry will continue to monitor the situation through state and district education offices and improve information dissemination to parents. Fadhlina expressed gratitude to parents for their feedback and patience in navigating the situation.