President Cyril Ramaphosa
announced that South Africa will enter a nationwide lockdown for 21 days.
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) said
it had engaged with the National Department of Basic Education on the
lockdown’s effect on the public schooling system.
Head of Department for the WCED, Brian
Schreuder, said currently, the date for the reopening of schools is uncertain.
‘’Millions of learners across the country will
be on lockdown and we need every parent to do their bit to ensure that our
learners remain focused and stimulated. I am aware of the many holiday
programmes or learning opportunities communicated to parents by teachers from
various schools. This is greatly appreciated.’’
‘’I encourage parents to continue to pay school
fees, as many teachers employed by of our governing bodies rely on the payment
of these fees for their salaries. We are aware that many families will suffer
income losses during this period and remind them that there is an option to
apply for fee exemption when schools return. This is important to do, as it
will enable schools to apply for fee compensation.’’
Schreuder says the WCED has arranged security
at 450 schools across the province. Schools were asked to ensure that alarm
systems and other essential security features were tested before schools closed
last week.
He asked that communities remain vigilant and report any suspicious
behaviour in and around oschools to the police as soon as possible.
Done By: Mitchum George
