Basic Education warns staff to pitch for work on Monday

The Department of Basic Education has warned staff to pitch up for work on Monday, saying the failure to do so will lead to disciplinary action.

School management and support staff are expected back in the classrooms on Monday, while all educators are expected back at school on 1 February.

Pupils will only return to school on next month. 

 The department says teachers and support staff need to provide a valid reason for not coming to work.

 This comes amid concern about the second wave of Covid-19 infections which has seen the opening of schools pushed back by at least two weeks.

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“On January 2021, the Minister of Basic Education released Notice 18 of 2021 to amend directions regarding the dates for the reopening of schools to provide for the 2021 academic year, and for measures to address, prevent and combat the spread of Covid-19 in the country,” says spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.

 “As a result, all educators and support staff are expected to report for duty as per the above schedule without fail.”