THE annual gathering of scholars under the Iskolar Ko ni Bambi (IKNB) program which is set on Friday, February 14, has been put on hold due to the ongoing threat of the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
Misamis Oriental Governor Yevgeny Emano announced that the 13th IKNB convention will be suspended based also from the advisory of the Department of Health (DOH).
Emano said the safety of the scholars should not be compromised and especially that protective masks have been running out.
The capitol’s top official asked the IKNB beneficiaries and all stakeholders for understanding even as he vowed that the yearly convention will still be pushed through and the schedule will be announced soon.
Last week, the health department issued an advisory urging the public to avoid attending, participating in, and organizing events that draw a huge number of attendees. The DOH likewise recommends the cancellation of planned big events or mass gatherings until further notice.
“To further minimize the risk of contracting 219-nCoV ARD, the public is advised to avoid crowded places and continue to practice self-protection measures,” the advisory said.
More than 3,000 scholars are expected to attend the IKNB general assembly on the Valentine’s Day where several activities have been lined up.
The IKNB program has already produced more than 20,000 graduates since 2007.
IKNB beneficiaries are taking four-year degree courses, technical-vocational courses, skills training and other courses in different colleges and universities in the province and in Cagayan de Oro City without spending for their tuition and other school fees.