THE Department of Basic Education (DBE) has reassured members of the public that Minister Angie Motshekga has never said that too much studying causes brain cancer. This after the department noted a recent spate of fake news doing the rounds on social media.
The department said despite the ridiculous nature of the statements, some members of the public have expressed concern over the fake reports.
The fake news article quotes the Minister as saying: “Learners must take care of themselves and rest these holidays. I would advise them not to touch their books so they can rest their brains because studying too much causes brain cancer”.
The department said anyone who follows the Minister’s interventions would know that the Minister is a passionate advocate of reading, as well as an avid reader herself.
Read Also: Plea for inclusive education continues
“She has on numerous occasions urged learners to use their free time to discover the magic of books, and she encourages parents to buy books for their children instead of toys. She has also launched the Read to Lead Campaign which is a reading advocacy initiative that urges learners and parents to drop all and read for 30 minutes a day.”
“We urge members of the public to be vigilant about verifying they read before they share it on social media. This type of malicious content is created with the express intent to cause confusion and to cause the public to lose confidence in Government,” said the department.
Another fake news story doing its rounds is that the minister wants to help school “drop outs” get employment by giving them Matric certificates as long as they are able to read and write.
The department has condemned these reports in the strongest possible terms.
Read Also: Domino Foundation helps young adults pursue their dreams
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter to keep up-to-date with local news or follow us on WhatsApp on 060 532 5532.
