BOARDING school pupils will be able to go back to their schools in stages, said the Education Ministry.

Education Minister Mohd Radzi Md Jidin said the process of shifting pupils will take around 28 to 42 days and is expected to complete by end of July.

“The return period to boarding schools depends on the number of pupils and will be implemented by the school body,” he said in a press conference aired live today.

The Bersatu senator added this also depends on the capacity of dormitories.

“The dormitories that have enough capacity after taking into account social-distancing measures are allowed to operate as normal.

“But, for dorms that have limited space after social distancing, only a part of their pupils will be allowed to move back in,” Radzi said.

Among the challenges that boarding schools face are the use of double-decker beds in their dormitories. Upon the advice of the Health Ministry, Radzi said only lower bunkers will be usable for now.

He said after 14 days, the first batch would be allowed to use the upper deck and new pupils will use the lower bunk.

Earlier today, the Education Ministry announced schools reopen on July 15 and 22 in stages following clearance from Health Ministry and the National Security Council. – July 1, 2020.