“Carelessness, lack of thought, and the triumphalism of some can have an enormous impact on teaching in school in the coming months”, the Malta Union of Teachers warned on Wednesday. 

The MUT appealed for everyone to be responsible in every decision that they take, noting that every action could have an impact on children’s education, especially through the reopening or otherwise of schools next month. 

The union said that it is a known fact that online teaching can never replicate that which is done face-to-face in class and the experience of the school environment. 

“The increase in virus cases is worrying everyone, not least teachers who are aware of the continuous contact inside classrooms with students. Schools are unlike other workplaces and restrictive measures such as those in shops and offices cannot be successfully implemented in schools.” 

MUT said that social distancing, wearing of masks, and hygiene remain important factors in limiting the spread of the virus, but noted that one must see how to adapt this within a school context where hundreds of students and educators are in an environment where it is difficult to avoid contact.

“The consequences could be great, for educators, students, parents and their relatives”, the MUT said. 

“The MUT appeals to each individual to seriously think of their actions when they might put others at risk.”

Education Minister Owen Bonnici has said that schools will open at the end of September, but it is as of yet unclear in what manner they will open. 

Contingency plans for three different scenarios meanwhile have been drafted by the same ministry, with one scenario indicating a normal opening in September, another indicating attendance in alternate groups, and a third with teaching being carried out exclusively online.