The Department of Education in Northern Cape is experiencing a surge in infections in schools throughout the province. Eight schools in the province have been closed in order for contact tracing and the disinfection of the school premises.  

The Department announced that the 526 new Covid-19 infections are having an impact on schools. Of the 526 new cases, 54 accounted for educators while 439 learners tested positive for the virus. A further 33 school support staff members became infected with the virus.  

The Department explained “the pandemic is causing major disruptions in the education sector and the department is deeply concerned about the loss of learning and teaching time”. They also added that “This places an increased strain on our educators, learners, and support staff at schools to ensure that the trimmed curriculum is fully covered and learners are well prepared for the end of year examinations".

Northern Cape Education MEC Zolile Monakali announced that five of the eight schools that were closed last week were reopened this morning. 

Monakali said “we are concerned about them but are still trying to make sure that the schools that are reopening have complied with all the protocols of Covid, making sure that the schools have been disinfected  [and] making sure the schools have enough sanitizer and PPE so that the learners can return back safely to school”. 

Monakali also said the department is satisfied that the schools that have reopened have complied with Covid-19 protocols. “At the schools we are making sure that all compliance matters are complied with and will stick to those protocols”. 

The Department said “We are all in this together, working under tremendous pressure and we will succeed if we continue to work together. Our school communities play a pivotal role to support the schools in their respective communities and we urge all to adhere to the COVID-19 regulations at all times. Let us support the Class of 2021”.