THE Democratic Alliance in West Durban did a school oversight visit on Monday, 8 June to ascertain if the schools were safe and ready to open.

DA PR councillor, Mzamo Billy said they visited Ashley Primary School, Thornwood High School in Dassenhoek and KwaNdengezi High School also known as Ndengetho.

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“The visit was conducted by myself as the PR councillor in these areas along with DA member of provincial legislature, Martin Meyer,” said Billy.

He said their decision to conduct these visits was mainly based on their position that schools should only open when it is safe for learners, educators and staff.

He said at schools there must be sufficient Covid-19 personal protective equipment, clean running water and decent sanitation for both learners and staff.

“We are of the view that the decision to safely reopen schools on a phased-in basis will ultimately be in the best interest of learners to ensure  they complete their academic year.”

Billy said they were satisfied with the state of readiness at Ashley Primary School and commended the principal, Mrs Naicker and members of the school governing body for the great work that they have done to ensure that learners and educators were safe and equipped.

“We are informed that parents were also involved and played a significant role in this. We thank them,” he said.

Billy pointed out that they were concerned about the state of readiness for teaching and learning at Thornwood High School even though the PPE was delivered.

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“Not all teachers were present at school as there were late and perhaps misguided communications coming from the teachers unions and the department of education on Sunday, a day before the re-opening of school. This created confusion and uncertainty we are informed,” he said.

During their visit at KwaNdengezi High School, the school was not opened but the principal and some few staff were on site.

“Covid-19 personal protective equipment arrived only on Monday. The school does not have running water due to the theft of pipes. I have contacted the municipality to fill the JoJo tanks today and this will be done. Classes will will only commence later this week”

While the DA members were concerned about the state of readiness in this school, “we will assist where we can to ensure that the department of education attends to the issues raised. Schools must be opened but this must only happen when it is safe for learners, teachers and staff,” added the PR councillor.

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