Kazakhstan Eases COVID Restrictions: Schools Reopen, Graduates Back in Class
Kazakhstan's education and leisure sectors have seen changes in their operating capacities and learning formats due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. The Chief State Sanitary Doctor, Yerlan Kiiasov, has amended the restrictive measures, effective from March 1, 2021.
In the latest update, traditional learning is allowed in schools with up to 300 students, with no more than 15 students per class in the third quarter of the 2020-2021 academic year. From March 1, 2021, combined learning in shifts is permitted for younger students in secondary and international schools. Additionally, first-year college and university students can resume in-person learning from the second semester.
However, Kiiasov initially ordered all branches of colleges and universities to switch to distance learning from March 1, 2021. This directive has since been amended. Graduating classes (9, 11 (12) grades) can now attend classes for 6 days a week, with 70% of subjects in person and 30% online. The activity of socio-economic facilities remains limited, and individual learning outside of school hours is permitted in groups of no more than 15 students. Bowling alleys and computer clubs operate with varying capacities and hours based on the zone (yellow or green). Enhanced quarantine measures will remain in effect for at least 7 days after their introduction and will not be eased earlier than two weeks after transitioning to the yellow or green zone.
These amendments aim to balance education and safety, allowing students to resume learning while maintaining preventive measures against COVID-19. The changes will come into effect at 00:00 on March 1, 2021, and will remain in place for at least 7 days, with further easing dependent on the epidemiological situation.
