Provincial Education MEC, Tate Makgoe, tweeted that the department is urging learners to adhere to COVID-19 protocols at school.

He further urges learners to implement basic hygiene guidelines.

This follows after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a temporary closure of schools due to increasing COVID-19 transmissions last month.

Meanwhile, Basic Education Department spokesperson, Hope Mokgatlhe, says residents are urged to assist in safeguarding the academic year.

This follows after threats by individuals and groups to disrupt teaching and learning.

She says: "We would like to remind those who want to disrupt schooling that we will engage with law enforcement. It is only the head of the department of a province that can legally decide whether to open or close a school."

OFM News