University cooks now center of focus in coronavirus containment ahead of reopening

Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha has admitted reopening learning institutions is a tall order in the face of increasing coronavirus infections.

Prof Magoha yesterday called on universities to put in place proper modalities of handling their staff, some of whom he said, could easily spread the virus unless they are provided with the necessary equipment.

The CS who spoke at Maseno University, where he had gone to assess the level of preparedness ahead of planned reopening, said cooks, for instance, pose the greatest threat to the fight against the pandemic. 

"I urge managements of all institutions to come up with modalities that will ensure their members of staff do not become conduits for spreading the virus," Magoha said.

Among other measures, the CS hinted at regular testing of staff at the same time ensuring just a few at work at any given time.?

He said staff who work in the kitchen must be treated in a special manner as they handle food.

"They have capacity and potential to spread the virus faster. They should be tested for Covid-19 and the testing must continue to happen, from time to time," said Magoha.

Additionally, Magoha urged universities to provide all their staff with proper PPEs that included face masks.

“We should be secure but the people handling us should be more secure,” Magoha said. "We must take this as the new normal as far as the university sector is concerned."

Inspection of universities started on Friday, with Egerton University, which conducted a virtual graduation. Several universities are going on with online teaching, examinations and virtual graduations.