Distance Learning Extended, Tangerang Regent Concerned Over Volcanic Ash Health Risks
The Tangerang Regency Government in Banten has extended Distance Learning (PJJ) for students at the PAUD, primary, and junior high school levels until Friday (11/9).
Distance learning was previously implemented due to the volcanic activity of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. This policy was taken as an anticipatory measure against the impact of volcanic ash distribution, which has the potential to disrupt student health.
Tangerang Regent Maesyal Rasyid stated that the decision to extend distance learning was made because the distribution of volcanic ash still requires vigilance. According to him, the condition could impact public health, particularly for children.
“Why did we decide on this policy? It is better to prevent than to treat; it is better to anticipate than to respond only after our community members have become victims,” said Maayesal on Wednesday (9/9).
However, after monitoring the eruption conditions and the distribution of volcanic ash, the Tangerang Regency Government decided to extend distance learning until 11 September.
The extension of distance learning is stipulated in the Tangerang Regency Education Office Circular Letter Number B/100.3.2/13587/IX/Disdik regarding the Advisory for the Implementation of Distance Learning (PJJ) in the Tangerang Regency Area.
In the circular, educational units are requested to ensure that the online learning process continues to run smoothly. The attendance of both teachers and students must also be monitored during the implementation of distance learning.
Teachers are asked to adjust the workload and learning activities to the students’ conditions. Schools are also required to communicate with parents or guardians to monitor the health status of students while affected by the volcanic ash distribution.
If any students experience health disturbances due to exposure to volcanic ash, schools are requested to coordinate with the nearest health facilities so that students can receive immediate treatment.
Parents are also advised to limit their children’s outdoor activities during distance learning to reduce the risk of volcanic ash exposure.
Maesyal stated that exposure to volcanic ash can cause several health issues, including Acute Respiratory Infections (ISPA), eye irritation, and skin irritation.
“So, we must ensure there are no victims in our community, whether it be respiratory infections, or eye and skin irritation, and so on. It is better to prevent it; it is better to prevent,” Maesyal explained.
Previously, distance learning in Tangerang Regency had been in effect from Monday (7/9) to Wednesday (9/9). With this extension, PAUD, primary, and junior high school students in Tangerang Regency will continue to learn from home until Friday (11/9).
The Tangerang Regency Government will continue to monitor the developments of Mount Anak Krakatau and the distribution of volcanic ash as material for evaluation to determine future learning policies.