Basic education dept warns schools against premature re-opening
“In some schools teachers have already reported for duty and parent meetings have been held where plans were announced to have learners back in school in May.”
The basic education department has urged schools to adhere to regulations and refrain from opening schools prematurely.
Department spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said they became aware that some independent (or private) and public schools are already preparing to re-open much earlier and even receive learners ahead of the schedule announced by Minister Angie Motshekga.
“In some schools teachers have already reported for duty and parent meetings have been held where plans were announced to have learners back in school in May.
“The premature re-opening of schools is not permitted. The department is still finalising Covid-19 school compliance protocols. The uniform standards will be applicable in schools as part of the measures put in place to protect learners and teachers, reduce infection and save the academic year.”
Mhlanga said 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 re-open during alert level 4.
“Until such date and schedule are determined, all schools, including independent schools, must remain closed. The minister has already indicated how she intends to have schools re-open and until a final decision is made no school may open and receive learners.
“On 29 April, the Minister of Employment and Labour also issued the directive in terms of regulation 10 (8) of the regulations in terms of section 27 (2) of the disaster management act, 2002 (act no. 57 Of 2002).
Minister Motshekga announced that office-based workers would gradually return to work from 4 May, school management teams to go back on 11 May, and teachers on 18 May. The proposed date for the gradual return of learners is 1 June.
“I, therefore, urge schools to familiarise themselves with all the regulations and directives to ensure compliance. In the meantime, schools must consult with the departments of health and of employment and labour, in anticipation of the determination made by the minister. I am emphasising that until this determination is made schools must remain closed,” Basic Education, Director-General Hubert Mweli said.
Mhlanga said the minister will next week return to the national coronavirus command council to present an enhanced recovery plan for basic education based on inputs and feedback received thus far.
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