Tuberculosis infection in two vocational schools in Baku — OFFICIAL STATEMENT

Allegations have emerged regarding cases of tuberculosis infection at the Emal Industry branch of the Baku State Vocational Education Center operating in Baku city.

It is reported that several students at the aforementioned educational institution have been suspected of having tuberculosis, and as a result, teaching has been temporarily suspended.

Students have been referred to relevant medical institutions for medical examinations and tests.

It is claimed that a similar situation has been observed at Baku Vocational School No. 5. It is reported that students suspected of having tuberculosis have also been identified at that educational institution and they have also undergone medical examinations.

Official bodies have not yet issued any statements regarding the matter. The suspension of teaching has caused concern and discussions among both students and parents.

Our.Media has submitted an inquiry to the State Agency for Vocational Education regarding the issue.
 
Havva Gozelova, Senior Advisor of the Public Relations Sector of the Department of Partner Relations and Communications of the Agency, denied the claim about the closure of vocational education institutions and stated that teaching is continuing.

"The State Agency for Vocational Education is investigating the allegations circulating about the Emal Industry branch of the Baku State Vocational Education Center and Baku Vocational School No. 5 through the relevant state authorities.

We affirm that temporary suspension of teaching is carried out solely based on the decisions of relevant agencies, taking into account the health and safety of the students.

The sanitary-epidemiological situation at the institutions is constantly monitored and necessary preventive measures are being taken," the statement read.

It should be noted that although the agency’s statement denies the suspension of teaching, according to information provided to our website by parents and students, teaching at the Emal Industry branch of the Baku State Vocational Education Center has been suspended for more than a month.

The institution’s teaching staff and students have been sent for examinations, and disinfection work is currently underway at the school.