Community speaks out as more grades are expected to be back at school

Kwatsaduza  Grade R, One, Two, Three, Six, 10 and 11 learners were expected to return to the classrooms on Monday.

However, Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga announced on Thruday that only Grade R, Six and 11 learners will return to school on Monday.

Kwatsaduza residents had the following to say with regards to allowing more learners to go back to school.

Matshidiso Silinda says parents have to work with teachers to ensure the year isn’t wasted.

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“I am glad to see the department has reconsidered its decision, especially where the young groups are concerned.

“The situation isn’t ideal for learners to physically go back to school at the moment.

“We as parents need to work with teachers to ensure no child falls behind.

“Schools should distribute learning material to parents to home-school the learners.

“We can create a schedule whereby every Friday we collect the teaching material from the school and on Mondays we submit,” says Silinda.

Ward 74 Clr Thulani Simelane says even though he doesn’t fully support the decision for learners to go back to school, he believes the systems put in place will ensure the safety of learners at schools.

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Another resident, Maria Mokoena, says: “Allowing Grade Rs to go back to school is a bit irresponsible because they are children and would want to play with each other.

“Chances are they will be exchanging their masks and lunchboxes because that?s just the nature of children.

“The minister has to seriously reconsider her decision.

“It is a pity that five- and six-year-olds are expected to brave the icy weather to go to school.”

The minister said the department was guided by observations of the spike in cases, recognising that schools were based in communities directly affecting learners.

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