By Staff
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga yesterday announced that the National Coronavirus Command Council and Cabinet have approved the reopening of schools as of 1 June.
Motshekga made the announcement on Tuesday during a media briefing where she outlined the state of readiness of schools amid the Covid-19 pandemic in the country.
The minister said independent or private schools would also be opening in the metropolitan areas, adding the revised school calendar would be gazetted soon.
Motshekga stated that schools should adhere to and observe health and safety protocols that would be in place when schools reopen.
Pupils, teachers and support staff will be receiving orientation and training at the start of the school reopening, which will start with grades 7 and 12 as well as “small schools”. An explanation on what constituted a small school would be provided soon.
Motshekga stated that the department was working with organizations who were advising it on the way to phase in pupils from special schools.
“Our planning and procurement has considered the needs of learners with disabilities and those in special schools. Provinces have put in place plans that will ensure that no child is compromised.” Said Motshekga.
Motshekga said that careful consideration would also be made to ensure there was balance between allowing early childhood developments (ECDs) to operate as well as the safety and health of children and caregivers.