Schools open in Greece with precautions

Summer holidays for students and teachers came to an end as schools throughout Greece opened on Monday, but with new precautions and plans for possible closures due to the novel virus.

It is recalled both teachers and pupils must wear a mask at all times (in all indoor areas of the school building, as well as outdoor spaces with high levels of crowding, on school buses, etc.).

If a student does not comply with the rules on the use of masks, they will not be allowed to enter the classroom, and will be sent home.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis also visited a primary school at Aghii Anargyri with Education Minister Niki Kerameus on Monday, the first day of the new school year.

"I admire the fact that you are all so conscientious and that you will finally do the right thing," underlined Mitsotakis praising the children for wearing masks.

The PM said that "this is a moment when your are allowed to copy each other: to wear face masks, keep safe distances, wash your hands and avoid hugging and kissing. This year, as well as our lessons, we will also learn how we can all be responsible citizens."

Meanwhile, the President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou also attended the opening of a school on the Greek island of Kastellorizo.

Addressing the 60 pupils of the island, she wished them a happy school year, underlining the importance of education and made a special reference to the new conditions imposed to protect against the spread of the novel coronavirus, such as the use of face masks and other protection measures.

"It is difficult but we must implement it and get accustomed to it" she said, addressing the pupils.