The return to school comes amidst a huge public outcry and heavy criticism against the Department of Basic Education. This as the rate of Covid-19 infections continue to increase with the rate of fatalities in the North West and across the country. Amongst those that criticised the department for allowing teachers and pupils back at schools, is the teacher's union Sadtu. The union previously mentioned that schools across the country should only be reopened once the curve in the rate of infection has been flattened.

The criticism comes after several teachers, pupils and staff were infected by the virus. The North West Department of Education previously announced that more than 100 Covid-19 cases confirmed were from various schools across the province since the reopening of schools for Grade 12 and 7 pupils on June 8, 2020. The department said in these confirmed cases seven principals, two deputy principals, eleven staff members, 64 teachers and 22 learners were declared positive.

Various schools in the province were also vandalised by arsonists.

Three classrooms prepared for the phasing in of Grade 10s and 11s were previously set alight at Ramaine-A-Phetlhu Secondary School at Magogoe a Koikoi Village in Mafikeng.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education MEC in the province, Mmaphefo Matsemela, will be taking part in monitoring the Grade 12 return to school today. Matsemela will visit the Moedwil Combined School along the N4 near Swartruggens.

OFM News