COVID-19 Crisis: DBE Announces Phased Re-Opening of Schools for Matrics and Grade 7 Learners

Charles Molele and Nyakallo Tefu

Department of Basic Education on Wednesday announced guidelines to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection in schools that are scheduled to re-open next week after month-long closures, calling for thorough sanitization of all schools and warning against gathering in cluster groups.

The guidelines also requests compulsory wearing of masks throughout the school day by learners and teachers, including physical distancing in classrooms and avoidance of hugging, handshaking and direct contact.

If an infection is suspected or detected, the infected learner or staff member will be considered for isolation and testing.

 These and other stringent measures were announced on Wednesday by Basic Education Director-General Hubert Mweli during a joint meeting between the portfolio committee on basic education and the select committee on education and technology, sports, arts and culture.

The health and safety measures affects more than 12 million learners in South African public and private