On Monday schools across South Africa reopened after initial delay following concerns from teacher unions that many schools lacked facilities for reopening.
The schools are reopening after months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic and efforts to contain the spread.
Thousands of children across the country returned to classrooms to resume academic activities as part of a gradual loosening of restrictions.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has said that efforts have been made to equip 95% of South Africa’s primary and secondary schools to host classes.
“The golden rule is there will be no school that will resume if not ready to do so,” Motshekga said.
We are forced to adapt to the new normal in schools to curb the spread of COVID-19. The health and safety of our educators and learners is of paramount importance @NCape_Education @DBE_SA #schoolsreopening #schoolreopening #DearClass2020 #MondayMotivation pic.twitter.com/29rc9Fj1sf
— Dr Reginah Mhaule (@ReginahMhaule) June 8, 2020
For now though only pupils in grades 7 and 12 are returning to class, with other years phased in gradually, according to the government.
At various schools, students were screened for their temperatures then made to sanitize their hands before entering classrooms wearing their facemasks.
President Cyril Ramaphosa had said that “Our priority is the health and well-being of learners, students, educators and workers in these institutions.”
“Our priority is the health and well-being of learners, students, educators and workers in these institutions.”
President @CyrilRamaphosa #COVID19 #SchoolsReopening #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/IFhao8J5hc
— Presidency | South Africa ?? (@PresidencyZA) June 8, 2020
South Africa has recorded almost 50,000 cases of the new coronavirus and is the most affected country in sub-Saharan Africa with almost 1,000 deaths.
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Source: Africafeeds.com
