Learners comment on the re-opening of schools
Thembisan took to the streets to find out how learners feel about the return to school.
Grade 12 and Seven learners are set to return to school on June 8, after two months of not attending as a result of the national lockdown.
The Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, had announced on May 31 that from June 8, learners will return to school.
Thembisan took to the streets to find out how learners feel about the return to school.
Matimu Maluleke, Ivory Park Secondary School learner, said he always wanted to go back to school and finish his matric because he understands that it is hard for one not to have their matric certificate at this time and day.
“Working from home is exciting but it is also hard because no one really checks up on whether you are doing your schoolwork or not. Teachers reached out through social media but I feel it’s not enough. Other learners are kicked out of the group chats as they share unnecessary things to them,” said Maluleke.
Palesa Mailula, Zitikeni Secondary School learner, said that although self-study is necessary, it is often not sufficient.
“Self-study is difficult because we understand things differently and others prefer studying in groups and asking questions In some instances when I have a friend close by, I can’t go study at her house or invite her to my house to study because of the coronavirus.
“I miss the activities I used to do at school, the debates with friends, staying positive about studying and getting to challenge people?s minds on various topics. In addition, I believe going back to school should not be optional, parents are very protective of their children, if they choose to send their children to school in July it would mean they have lost the June syllabus,” Mailula added.
Lehlohonolo “Touch” Mofokeng, Umqhele Comprehensive School learner, said it’s a great thing they are returning to school because they will have the teachers explaining things better to them.
“The question is how will we cover two terms and the rest of the syllabus for the rest of the year It might be a challenge.
“Sticking to the regulations would benefit us. But keeping a distance might be difficult for learners who are used to working in groups. Spending a lot of time at school is a good thing for me because I get to do something that will benefit me in the end.
“I feel like the level of concentration has dropped due to staying at home even though we studied at home,” concluded Mofokeng.
