88 schools in flood-affected regions of Kazakhstan switch to distance learning

In response to the devastating floods that hit several regions in Kazakhstan during the summer of 2021, affecting more than 100,000 people and damaging over 1,500 houses and infrastructure facilities, including schools, the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan announced that 88 schools would be transitioning to distance learning.

The decision was made to ensure the continuity of education for students in these affected areas while prioritizing their safety and wellbeing. The schools affected by the floods were primarily located in the Almaty and Zhambyl regions, which experienced some of the most significant damage due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

Distance learning refers to educational instruction delivered through digital means, such as online platforms and digital resources, rather than traditional classroom settings. In the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this mode of education has become increasingly popular as a means of maintaining educational continuity while minimizing physical contact and reducing the risk of infection.

The Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan has been working diligently to ensure that students in these affected areas have access to the necessary technology and resources for distance learning. The government has provided tablets and laptops to students who did not have access to digital devices at home. Additionally, teachers have been trained on how to effectively use digital tools and platforms for instruction and have been provided with necessary training and resources.

The Ministry has also established a hotline for parents and students to call for technical support and assistance with accessing digital resources. Furthermore, the Ministry has partnered with telecommunications companies to provide free internet access for students in affected areas for the duration of the school year.

The implementation of distance learning in these schools is expected to last until the end of the academic year, which is scheduled for June 2022. The Ministry has emphasized that this is a temporary measure and that efforts are being made to repair and rebuild damaged schools as soon as possible.

Despite the challenges posed by the floods and the transition to distance learning, the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that students in these affected areas continue to receive a quality education and that their academic progress is not disrupted. The Ministry has also expressed its gratitude to international organizations and partners for their support and assistance during this time.

In conclusion, the decision to transition 88 schools in flood-affected regions of Kazakhstan to distance learning was made to ensure educational continuity and prioritize the safety and wellbeing of students in these areas. The Ministry has been working diligently to provide students with the necessary technology and resources for effective distance learning and has established support systems to address any challenges that may arise during this transition. The implementation of distance learning is expected to last until the end of the academic year, with efforts being made to repair and rebuild damaged schools as soon as possible.