The Department of Basic Education has taken note of various media and other reports of continuing industrial action by teachers in some provinces. The department condemns the continuing disruption of learning and teaching in the strongest possible terms.
We are particularly concerned that these actions militate against the public statements of teacher unions that the protest actions of earlier this week would be limited to one day. In some of our schools it is apparent that learners have now missed out on an entire week of schooling.
We also note with concern the reports that schools where learning and teaching were proceeding normally today have been disrupted by striking teachers from neighbouring schools. These actions cannot be tolerated and we are working closely with the South African Police Services to deal harshly with such incidents.
“We have 72 days to the start of the Grade 12 examinations. We cannot afford to lose any more teaching and learning time,” said Mr Bobby Soobrayan, Director-General of the Department of Basic Education. “What we require now is a national effort in support of the class of 2010,” Soobrayan continued.
Enquiries:
Granville Whittle
Cell: 072 148 9575
Source: Department of Education
