All schools must be ready before KZN schools can reopen, say unions
'The lives of education workers and learners are more important than the need to save an academic year'
FIVE unions in KZN say education in the province will only commence once all schools are ready to receive learners and teachers.
The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa), National Teachers Union (Natu), SA Teachers Union (SAOU) and Professional Educators Union (PEU), yesterday (Wednesday) advised their members not to report for duty until schools are fully prepared.
ALSO READ: Food parcels to rural Manguzi communities a godsend
‘Union representatives in various districts reported that not all schools have received the agreed-upon personal protective equipment (PPE), and sanitisation and disinfecting materials.
‘Schools have not had their water tanks filled or cleaned.
‘Reports indicate that hand wash basins have not been delivered,’ the unions said in a joint statement.
‘How will schools be cleaned or hands sanitsed if there is no water?
‘Water is not only a basic human right, but indispensable at this time during the Covid-19 pandemic.
‘Principals are under immense pressure to pick up chemicals in quantities they are legally not authorised to transport, and are also expected to oversee the deep cleaning, fumigation and disinfecting of schools.
‘The health and lives of our principals are not being respected,’ the statement said.
The unions urged the Department of Education to work closely with them to devise a comprehensive plan, which would require two to three weeks of uninterrupted work.
‘The lives of education workers and learners are more important than the need to save an academic year,’ the unions said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
