The Big Issues

No School for the Unvaxxed

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A Covid-19 vaccine mandate is now a reality in the nation’s schools for youth ages 12 to 17, and has become immediately controversial. Many parents are ready to protest. The government says students will not be allowed on school compounds unless they are vaccinated. In this episode, we ask: Is the new mandate really necessary? And what becomes of those who decline the jab?

The host is Kieron Murdoch. The guests are:

  1. Dr. Patrick Martin, a medical doctor joining us from St. Kitts and Nevis. He’s a pediatrician. He was Chief Medical Officer there previously.
  2. Mr. Foster Roberts, Principal at the Ottos Comprehensive School (OCS).
  3. Dr. George Roberts, a medical doctor here in Antigua and Barbuda, and an ear nose and throat specialist.


    4. More about this episode:


    We talk about why eligible young people should get vaccinated and discuss whether a mandate is necessary in order to secure the compliance of parents and students. We also talk about what impact the mandate is likely to have on students who remain unvaccinated, and we will try and weigh the imperatives of public health and a safe school environment against the right that a child has to education.

    This programme first aired on NewsCo Observer Radio 91.1 FM on November 14th, 2021. Get the latest news from Antigua and Barbuda at the Antigua Observer online.

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    The Big IssuesBy The Big Issues Production Team