KHARTOUM, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- The authorities of Sudan's capital Khartoum on Saturday announced resumption of classes at basic and high schools and kindergartens starting from Jan. 8.

"School classes in the state are to resume as of Tuesday," the education ministry of Khartoum State said at a press release.

The decision covers both government and private schools in the state's seven localities, it added.

It further noted that the examinations are to be conducted according to the planned academic calendar.

On Dec. 21 last year, the Khartoum authorities announced suspension of classes at all schools in Khartoum State until further notice, citing increasing protests in the country.

Since Dec. 19, various areas in Sudan, including Khartoum, have been witnessing popular protests over the deteriorating economic conditions and price hikes of basic commodities.

According to government statistics, 19 people have been killed during the popular protests.