Janevska: Schools must follow protocols during hot weather; shortening lessons is allowed only in the yellow phase

Minister Vesna Janevska said that lessons held on days with high temperatures must be conducted in accordance with the protocol for action in such conditions. She explained that the protocols have been published on the website of the Ministry of Education and Science and distributed to all schools, responding to a question about whether class periods would be shortened for students.

Janevska said that climate change is a reality we cannot avoid, while high temperatures pose a challenge for children in Europe and around the world.

According to her, this situation does not mean that the educational process should be suspended. The heads of educational institutions and teachers must adapt activities to the weather conditions. In the event of high temperatures, physical education may be replaced with a break, visual arts, music or other activities.

The protocols also specify when windows should be opened or closed, as well as the activities students may undertake during hot days.

Asked about equipping schools with air conditioners, the minister said they would be provided when the state has the capacity to equip all educational institutions.

“We are acting according to priorities and doing a great deal. I believe that in the near future we will not face such a challenge,” Janevska added.