THE UNITED Nations Children’s Education Fund urged teachers and support personnel to get vaccinated against Covid19.

UNICEF said the measure aims to keep schools open amid the spike of Covid19 cases.

“As the Omicron variant of Covid19 continues its spread all over the world, we urge governments to do everything in their power to keep it from further disrupting children’s education,” the agency said.

To avert a learning catastrophe and put children back on the learning track, UNICEF also recommended “comprehensive support” to learners.

“We know that mitigation measures help keep schools open. We also know that investments in digital connectivity can help us make sure that no child is left behind. We need bold action to enable every child to return to school,” it pointed out.

“This includes providing comprehensive support with a particular focus on marginalized children in each community, such as catch-up classes, mental health and nutrition support, protection and other key services,” it added.

Meanwhile, UNICEF expressed support to the pediatric vaccination.

However, it stressed that vaccinating learners should not be a pre-requisite for in-person classes.

“Making access to in-person schooling contingent on Covid19 vaccination risks denying children access to education and increasing inequalities,” the agency said.

“Consistent with WHO recommendations, UNICEF recommends keeping schools open and ensuring that countries’ Covid19 control strategies facilitate children’s participation in education and other aspects of social life, even without vaccinating children and adolescents,” it added.