This, as Grade 12 and seven learners countrywide are expected to resume with their studies as of Monday, June 1. 

Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, has vowed to ensure that there is provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at schools, adequate water and sanitation as well as deep cleaning of classrooms before schools reopen. 

Several education unions, including Sadtu, have however raised concerns over the department's state of readiness, stating that their members will not report for duty should the department fail to put all precautionary measures in place.

The Public Servants Association (PSA) in the Free State has further expressed disappointment at the level of unpreparedness for the reopening of schools by the Provincial Education Department, stating that at the start of this week, none of the schools had been provided with masks and sanitizers nor are water tankers made available at schools in drought-hit areas such as QwaQwa.

The provincial government however says: "The briefing will focus on the nine critical areas of education that were considered before the resumption of face-to-face learning and teaching, which include staffing and curriculum basics; sanitising and hygiene; infrastructure; scholar transport; orientation for staff and learners; the School Nutrition Programme; communicating with all relevant stakeholders during the Covid-19 pandemic; psychosocial services and School Governing Body support, amongst others".

The briefing is expected to take place virtually, and at Tsoseletso Secondary School at 10:00.

OFM News