Back to School In South Africa

In less than a week public schools, are expected to resume classroom teaching for Grade 7 and Matric learners in South Africa. South Africa's Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, has outlined the arrangements for the staggered reopening of schools. Schools closed abruptly in March as early cases of Covid-19 were confirmed in the country. Since then, there has been mixed reaction to their reopening, with some parents saying they would prefer to keep their children at home. Although the return for the rest of the grades has not yet been announced, Motshekga emphasised that a revised school calendar would be gazetted soon. It would indicate the opening and closing dates and holidays. Joining us on the line is:• Elijah Mhlanga, spokesperson of South Africa's Department of Basic Education • Johannes Motona, is the President of the Professional Educators Union (PEU) • Matakanye Matakanye, is the General Secretary of the National Association of School Governing Bodies • Dr Nic Spaull, senior researcher in the Economics Department at Stellenbosch University