Education sets up taskforce to counter El Nino impacts

A task-force has been set up by the Education Department to counter and minimize the impacts of El Nino on students learning across the country.

The slow onset weather condition predicted to peak between October to December, is a concern especially with schools going into examinations beginning September and ending in October.

Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra told NBC News, the taskforce will come up with a plan expected to address how schools and students operate during this time, measures to be employed among others.

“We have assigned the task force to come up with plans and strategies.

“The team will look at options to address the effects that we might have on teaching and learning.” Dr. Kombra said.

Grade 12 students across the country have the first written expression examinations on August 3rd, followed by Grade 12 STEM student examinations from August 31st - September 4th.

Grade 10 students then sit their examinations the following month from 5-9th, Grade 12's from 12-16 and concluding with Grade 8's from 19-22nd October.

Experts predict this examination period is also the peak period for the El Nino, with drought expected across the country.

This El Nino lasts on average between 9-18 months but if it eases, it's anticipated to do so around mid-2027.