In total, 348 positive Covid-19 cases were recorded during last week, which includes 52 educators, 276 learners and 20 support staff at schools.

This is evident that our schools are mirrors of the rising infection rate in our communities.  

Departmental spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe has said that all school communities should work with the department to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Parents must ensure that they limit the movement and social interaction of their children in and around their communities. It places a massive burden on our schools, when learners are the carriers of the coronavirus and transmit the virus through their interactions with other learners, educators and members of the community,” Van der Merwe said.

“Currently, we still have 11 schools closed in the Northern Cape due to Covid-19 infections. Of these schools, 9 are scheduled to reopen on Monday, 7 June 2021. The Department of Education is working with the Department of Health to act swiftly where cases are reported to ensure the health and safety of our educators, learners and support staff at schools,” he adds.

“School communities must adhere to the Covid-19 protocols at all times. All of us should wear our masks, wash and sanitise our hands regularly and maintain social distancing. The Department continues to monitor and assess the situation in our schools regularly to provide adequate support where needed,” Van der Merwe concluded.

Statement supplied.