Schools will remain closed across the Maldives capital next week as well.

The Ministry of Education revealed this in an announcement on Thursday, highlighting that this decision comes in light of the spiraling Covid-19 cases nationwide in recent days.

As such, the ministry revealed their decision to conduct online classes from students from Lower Kindergarten to 12th grade.

This will be in effect from May 16 – 20.

However, examinations will continue throughout this period.

As a precautionary measure against the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the ministry earlier closed down schools in the capital region from May 5 – 12, with online classes carried out for all students between LKG and Grade 12.

This comes as part of efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the country. As such, a 12-hour curfew is already in effect across the Greater Malé Region from 4pm to 4am.

Other measures implemented include halting dine-in services at restaurants and cafés, which will only be allowed to offer takeaway and delivery services. Further, gyms, exercise classes and all sports activities have also been banned, with cinemas, salons, day care centers and all public places closed as well.

In addition, HPA revealed that universities, colleges and all learning centers will not be allowed to conduct physical classes, government and private officers have been urged to conduct meetings online and allow employees to work from home.

Congregational prayers are also halted across the capital region.