Equal Education slams department for 'confusing' back-to-school plan
Non-governmental organisation Equal Education has slammed the Department of Basic Education for failing to allay fears of pupils, parents, and teachers on the future of learning during the national lockdown.
Equal Education’s Hopolang Selebalo says the department needs to provide a clear plan mapping out ways to ensure that schools reopen under safe conditions.
The department was expected to give an update on Monday but made an about turn, postponing its media briefing to Tuesday instead.
“Our members have been quite agitated that their voices are not being heard or at least that their input has not been solicited.
“The department hasn’t really consulted effectively in this regard.”
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Last month, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced that the proposed return date for grade 7s and 12s is on June 1. Motshekga is expected to brief the nation on Tuesday around the readiness of schools to reopen at the end of the month.
Last month, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced that the proposed return date for grade 7s and 12s is on June 1.
Motshekga is expected to brief the nation on Tuesday around the readiness of schools to reopen at the end of the month.
“In terms of transparency and accountability, their communication has been less than stellar,” says Selebalo.
“The inconsistencies, contradictions have left a lot of anxiety and confusion in the last couple of weeks about whether we are opening or not opening.”
Selebalo adds that she hopes the department will put forward a clear plan on the future of learning during the pandemic.
“It’s a mammoth task, certainly, considering the reopening of schools.
“We support the department taking its time on formulating a comprehensive plans that will ensure learners and teachers are safe.”
Meanwhile some schools continue with online learning to avoid a further loss of time in the curriculum.