The North West Education MEC, Mmampefo Matsemela, however, cautioned against complacency with regards to Covid-19 and pleaded that both learners and teachers should continue to observe non-pharmaceutical instructions to fight the Covid-19 virus.

“Following the rise in numbers of Covid-19 infections, schools were forced to close earlier than planned to avoid the spread of the virus. I, therefore, plead with our teachers and learners to continue to observe the non-pharmaceutical instructions by continuing to wash hands, social distancing, and wearing of masks. I further want to implore all parents to encourage learners to study whilst at home. We are living in difficult times of the pandemic and I wish our teachers and learners a safe winter break,” said Matsemela.

All teachers and non-teaching staff are expected to continue with their vaccination programme until 8 July 2021. Meanwhile, public schools will be reopening on 19 July 2021.  Primary school and special school learners are only expected back on 26 July, as this is in line with risk-adjusted plans.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi