Minister Angie Motshekga says the department of basic education is confident schools are ready for the new norm despite infrastructure problems experienced by the sector.
Motshekga was addressing the media on Sunday on the state of readiness for the return of normal learning. She said from Monday, rotational learning will end after the department engaged in meetings with teacher unions and associations that work with schools.
She said from the onset a number of concerns were raised from all the meetings, including the state of school infrastructure and feasibility of accommodating all the pupils.
“The normal learning will assist the sector to intensify its implementation of the recovery plan. The learning losses incurred in the past two years are devastating. The question of infrastructure came through in all our meetings, but people should know we had them before and we can’t link the return to classes to our pre-Covid-19 plans,” she said.
Motshekga said only 20% of primary schools have not returned fully. “We are aware we have a problem, let’s fast track how we deal with it. We are in talks with the National Treasury to resolve these matters. We also have a commitment from the minister of finance to assist us with school infrastructure. There was also a question of overcrowding at schools and we have identified that as an area that need special attention,” Motshekga said.
She said the department has adjusted school timetables, assessment programmes and all matters relating to the assessment and curriculum have been attended to.
In a government gazette notice issued by Motshekga, she said no person, other than a pupil or official, may enter a school premises or hostel, unless such person obtains the permission of and makes arrangements with the principal or head of department in advance before entering the school premises or hostel.
The minister said contact sport and non-contact sport, including training and all other extra mural activities may resume with spectators.
“The following health and safety measures must be adhered to when resuming events or activities contemplated in this direction. Face masks must be worn by all people entering the venues where the activities take place, change rooms or training areas, except when participating in training or matches accompanied by vigorous exercise,” she said.
Motshekga said the school or venue hosting the events or activities contemplated in this direction must ensure that venues, tools and equipment are cleaned and sanitised before and after any activities.
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