School assemblies cancelled over ‘eclipse concerns’

Morning assemblies have been cancelled at all schools as the Kingdom will today witness deepest solar eclipse in 100 years. Though the Education Ministry did not state the reason, it is understood that the step comes as a precaution.

People have been warned not to look at the sun with naked eyes during the eclipse as it may lead to severe damage including permanent blindness. Some private schools have announced a change in timings due to the eclipse. However, this will not be applicable to public schools.

The Ministry of Education confirmed that schools will function as usual. It stated that the scheduled examinations will take place without change. The eclipse will be begin at 6:25 am and will continue till 7:49 am. The peak of the eclipse in Bahrain will be at 6:36 am.

According to NASA, the following materials should never be used to view a solar eclipse: sunglasses of any kind, colour film, medical X-ray film, smoked glass and floppy disks. The sun’s UV radiation can burn the retinas in the eyes leading to permanent damage or even blindness. This can occur even if your eyes are exposed to direct sunlight for just a few seconds.