Schools reopened in much of Italy on
Monday for the first time since the early stages of the COVID-19
pandemic in early March.
Some 5.6 million pupils are back in class in 12 regions, plus
the autonomous province of Trento.
The reopening of Italy's schools is a big test for the State and
for Premier Giuseppe Conte's government.
"Today is an important day for the national community that we
are looking to with confidence and enthusiasm," said Conte.
"We don't hide the fact that there are difficulties.
"But there is constant monitoring and we will make an initial
assessment this evening.
"I also want to say that we are investing a great deal in
schools this year".
President Sergio Mattarella will inaugurate the school year
later on Monday in Vo', a Veneto town that was one of Italy's
first coronavirus hotspots.
Pupils must be at least one metre apart from each other while in
class.
They are allowed to lower their facemasks during lessons.
Pupils at some schools where it is not possible to respect the
one-metre rule, however, will have to wear masks throughout the
day.
Education Minister Lucia Azzolina said 94 million masks have
been sent to Italy's schools.
"The students have a great desire to go back to class and
reacquire sociality," Azzolina told RAI television.
"This year will be complex and we know that.
"But we have worked hard and constructed a prevention strategy
that will function if everyone does their bit with
responsibility".
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA