Kuala Lampur:More than 600,000 students in Johor are continuing their education at home due to school closures prompted by the haze, thanks to the collective efforts of teachers, parents, and community leaders.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, schools across the state are deserted following a two-day closure directive. However, home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) sessions are proceeding smoothly, facilitated by the digital readiness of teachers and support from parents and community leaders.
In Mersing, a Malay language teacher at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Endau, Nadia Natasha Mhd Roslaile, 28, noted that her experience with PdPR since 2020 has allowed her to adapt her teaching methods effectively. Improved internet connectivity has played a crucial role, with learning materials being delivered through platforms such as WhatsApp, DELIMa email, and Google Classroom.
In Batu Pahat, efforts to ensure student safety and education continuity extend beyond schools. The Village Head of Pekan Parit Sulong, Shuhaimi Abd Hamid, has been active in disseminating information about school closures and conducting patrols to ensure children remain indoors and are safe from the health risks posed by the haze.
Parents are also prioritizing the provision of adequate facilities for PdPR. Norazimah Md Ismail, a clerk, ensures that digital devices and home Wi-Fi are functioning well before she leaves for work, allowing her children to participate in their lessons effectively.
The SK Parit Sulong Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) chairman, Muhadir Abdullah, stated that various communication channels are being used to keep parents informed with official updates.
The closure affects 1,198 schools and 617,258 students in Johor. The decision for the closure was announced by Johor State Education and Information Committee Chairman Dr. Muhammad Naqib Md Ghazali, following a decree by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, to safeguard students' health amid unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings. The Johor government has also called on employers to be considerate and flexible with parents impacted by the school closures.