The department, in a parliamentary reply to the DA, says the "ECD function has not yet been transferred to them by proclamation, and the primary responsibility for the re-opening of ECD programmes rests with the Department of Social Development. 

Minister Angie Motshekga, however, says the Department of Basic Education is supporting Social Development in developing a plan towards the safe re-opening of ECD programmes. She alludes that all ECDs will have to adhere to the Covid-19 regulations when they reopen.

Her response to the opposition party comes as the country prepares for the phasing-in of more learners at schools including the Grade R pupils.

Following President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement last month that schools will be taking a four weeks long break to curb the spread of Covid-19, most schools are expected to resume with learning and teaching with more grades phased in on August 24.

Motshekga says they are working on measures to support ECD programmes to implement Covid-19 protocols and standard operating procedures, these include a strategy to train all practitioners to prepare adequately before children return to ECD programmes.

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