Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, announced that teachers would return to schools to prepare for the phased re-start of the 2020 academic year.

All grade 7 and 12 pupils across the country are expected back in the classroom from the 1st of June.

However, SADTU has advised its members who are teachers not to report for duty until the department has addressed all the issues and guaranteed the safety of members in the North West.

Meanwhile, Education MEC for the North West, Mmaphefo Matsemela, says the Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) which includes masks, gloves, sanitizers and thermometers for the School Management Teams and teachers are continuously delivered across districts.

"The School Management Teams and teachers will be screened when they arrive at school. The School Governing Bodies of many schools in the four districts have been hard at work cleaning different schools with detergents and disinfectants. The process of cleaning in different schools is continuing and is planned to finish on Tuesday," says Matsemela.

She says the department is working with the Water and Sanitation department to ensure that all learners have access to clean and running water.

"The Department of Water and Sanitation has committed itself to assist 248 schools," says Matsemela.

She has assured all teachers will receive their permits which allow them to return to their different work stations.

Jacaranda FM