CAPE TOWN -
The phasing in of schools will continue as planned despite criticism from parents and teachers due to the increase in Covid-19 cases.
There have been a few cases of teachers testing positive, multiple cases of pupils and schools closing before reopening once again due to infections.
Basic education minister Angie Motshekga the decision to open schools was not taken lightly and that they’re looking at alternatives which include rotational teaching. This would mean some learners would attend school in the morning, followed by a cleaning session and the next set of pupils would come to school later.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_qy1-3LOU8
“There will be a few cases where schools will require additional classroom space to accommodate learners.
“On the whole, there will be no need to appoint additional educators in large numbers to accommodate social distancing,” Motshekga said.
“Schools will use various models to accommodate learners; including alternate times, days, weeks’ attendance, depending on the context of a particular school,” she said.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga added that school principals need to ensure their schools strictly follow health protocols for the safety of both learners and teachers.
“Just like clinics, police stations and other frequently visited places, schools have found themselves also having to close and reopen.
“Principals must take measures to ensure pupils and employees are screened when the schools reopen, using the Department of Health Covid-19 procedures and questionnaires. Pupils and employees should report additional symptoms,” said Mhlanga.
ALSO SEE: CAPE PRINCIPALS LOBBYING AGAINST REOPENING OF SCHOOLS
For LIVE updates on the Coronavirus pandemic, follow us on Twitter :
@sacoronamonitor