The Department of Basic Education has warned all schools against reopening prematurely.
In a statement issued by the Department on Thursday, 7 May, Minister Angie Motshekga said she has become aware that some independent (or private) and public schools are already preparing to reopen much earlier, and even receive learners ahead of the schedule.
Motshekga had announced that from 4 May, office-based workers could return to work gradually; school management teams would be allowed to return to their schools on 11 May; and teachers would follow on 18 May 2020. The proposed date for the gradual return of learners is 1 June 2020.
In some schools teachers have already been reporting for duty, and parents meetings have been held where plans were announced to have learners back in school in May.
“The premature reopening of schools is not permitted, as the Department is still finalising Covid-19 school compliance protocols. The uniform standards will be applicable in all schools as part of the measures put in place to protect learners and teachers, reduce infection and save the academic year,” read the statement.
According to the department, regulations were published on 29 April 2020 in terms of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002, which listed education services under Alert Level 4 Table 1. Q. as permitted on a date and schedule yet to be announced, to direct when schools may reopen during Alert Level 4. Until such date and schedule are determined, all schools, including independent schools, must remain closed.
The minister has already indicated how she intends to have schools reopening, and until a final decision has been made, no school may open and receive learners.
On 29 April 2020, the Minister of Employment and Labour also issued the Directive in terms of Regulation 10 (8) of the Regulations in terms of Section 27 (2) of the Disaster Management Act.
Next week the minister will return to the National Coronavirus Command Council to present an enhanced recovery plan for basic education, based on inputs and feedback received thus far.
