Department of Basic Education warns against the premature reopening of schools

The Department of Basic Education has warned all schools against the premature reopening of schools.

The department has become aware that some independent and public schools are already preparing to reopen much earlier than planned, with some getting ready to receive learners ahead of the schedule announced by Minister Angie Motshekga.

In some schools, teachers have been reporting for duty and parents’ meetings have been held where plans were announced to have learners back in school in May.

The premature reopening of schools is not permitted as the department is still finalising Covid-19 school compliance protocols. The uniform standards will be applicable to schools as part of the measures put in place to protect learners and teachers, reduce infection and save the academic year.

Regulations were published on 29 April in terms of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002) which listed education services under Alert Level 4 Table 1. Q., as permitted on a date and schedule yet to be announced, to direct when schools may reopen during Alert Level 4.

Until such date and schedule are determined, all schools, including independent schools, must remain closed.

Motshekga announced that office-based workers would gradually return to work from 4 May, school management teams are to go back on 11 May and teachers on 18 May 2020.

The proposed date for start of the gradual return of learners is 1 June.

Schools have been urged to familiarise themselves with all the regulations and directives to ensure compliance.

The minister will next week return to the National Coronavirus Command Council to present an enhanced recovery plan for the basic education, based on inputs and feedback received thus far.

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