Learners went on an early winter break this year.
This announcement was made by president Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday 27 June.
The last day of school for learners was Wednesday 30 June and teachers’ last day will be on Friday 2 July.
Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, says the anticipated date for the reopening of schools for the third term is on Monday 19 July.
“This will be confirmed in the directions that are due to be gazetted. Schools are to reopen according to their current Temporary Revised Education Plans. The anticipated reopening of primary and special schools at 100% capacity will follow at a later date to be communicated,” says Motshekga.
Lena Waterboer, a parent, feels that if learners stick to protocol there will not be a problem. “Parents are also at work and children end up walking in the streets and causing mischief.”
Another parent, Regina Louw who has a child in Grade 11, feels 50/50 about the decision. “The decision of school closure places a lot of pressure on learners, but at the same time Covid-19 numbers are climbing and my child is safer at home than out in the world, but education is also important,” says Louw.
Motshekga adds that they understand this announcement left schools with very little time for preparation.
“We must, however, prepare for any eventuality and the possibility of further delays. We have urged schools to give the necessary work that can be done at home during the break or to continue their learning by whichever means (including the use of textbooks, workbooks, TV and radio broadcasts, digital learning and online learning), should the reopening of schools be delayed beyond 19 July.”
