By Kate Tamale-Sali
Last month, all finalists in academic institutions were permitted to resume their studies after being home for a prolonged period of time as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The world, as we know it, has changed forever. The way we live, work and even socially interact has drastically changed in order for us to survive. We are all finding ways on how to adapt to the ‘new normal’
I would like to encourage students to be more vigilant and diligently observe the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as well as all information availed to you by your teachers. In the words of Alvin Toffler, this is a time “to learn, unlearn and relearn”.
Please observe the mandatory wearing of masks, the practice of social distancing, washing of your hands, and using sanitizers at all times. Isolate yourself whenever you feel unwell to avoid putting others at risk. I understand that sometimes it may be easy to fall back into old habits, but let us do our best in being as responsible as we can and in doing so, make the world around us a safer place.
We also need to do more in taking care of nature instead of destroying it. We count on this generation in particular to make the positive changes they would like to see happen in our society.
I want to encourage you that no matter what challenges you and I may be going through, God is still in control and loves each one of us so dearly that he sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to die for your sins and mine once and for all (John 3:16).
In times like these, God’s exhortation is: “Call upon me in the day of trouble. I shall rescue you and you will honour me” (Psalms 50:15). God Himself also declares, in Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Let us thank and appreciate all the teachers who have taken on more responsibilities in ensuring that you remain safe and secure in your respective schools. Let each of us do our part and continue to trust the Lord for His continued protection.
God bless you all.
