MEC for Education in the province, Mack Jack, confirmed that 40 596 pupils - with the exception of Grade R learners - will be heading back to school for the first time since schools closed to curb the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19).

During his presentation on Sunday, on the preparedness of his department to welcome more grades back, he announced that the return of grade Rs will be delayed by at least a week.

This follows a huge outcry about the inclusion of this grade in a batch that was expected back to schools amidst a surge of infections in the province and across the country.

MEC Jack also announced that schools in the province are expected to struggle due to the high level of teachers who have not yet returned to school because of their health.

"Due to the spread and impact of the Covid-19, and in preparation for the reopening of schools, a total of 2 397 institution-based officials, including 2056 educators and 341 support staff members across 406 schools, have one or more pre-existing illness. Of the 2397 officials, 303 educators and 56 support staff members are aged 60 and above. In total, 1650 educators and 285 support staff members are below the age of 60 with one or more comorbidities," he further states.

"The Northern Cape Department of Education can confirm that 13 schools have been closed thus far due to Covid-19 infections. The latest schools that have been closed are Elizabeth Conradie Special School and the Noupoort Combined School," Jack adds.

Jack also touched on the 8 240 learners who are dependent on learner transport to and from school on a daily basis.

He says the department has scheduled another round of training and orientation sessions for transport operators in preparation for the incoming learners.

"We have also availed sanitisers and disinfectant material to operators to ensure that Transport Operators meet all the requirements in terms of COVID-19 regulations and guidelines," he says.

He further announced that his department has to date appointed 1976 screeners and 645 cleaners for all schools and all screeners in schools are appointed on an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) contract for six months and get paid a monthly stipend.

"We provided all screeners with Personal Protect Equipment (PPE) as they are required to perform their duties at the entrances of schools and offices, should anyone show symptoms of the COVID-19.

"We further encourage educators, parents and learners to adhere to the Covid-19 regulations to continue to practise good hygiene by washing your hands regularly, maintain social distancing and to always wear your mask to curb the spread or contracting the coronavirus," he further added.

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