The Department of Basic Education is concerned and disappointed that members of SADTU abandoned their work stations to involve themselves in a protest march. The Department finds the stance taken by SADTU unfortunate and regrettable.
Education Department spokesperson Panyaza Lesufi said it was sad that learners were left unattended in some parts of the country. “What concerns us the most is the fact that learners were forced to take part in the protest march’’ said Lesufi.
From the reports received thus far, its goes without saying that learners who were affected are exclusively children from poor communities.
According to reports from provinces it seems in most parts of the country it has been a normal school day. Reports indicate that the North West province is the most affected with 2 048 teachers reported to be absent while 18 schools were shut down across the four districts.
In the Western Cape 2 474 teachers were reported absent from school while 163 schools were affected and a total of 48 schools were closed while about 100 learners were seen participating in the protest march.
In Limpopo the Capricorn district experienced disruptions as learners left schools earlier than the usual time.
In Gauteng reports are still being correlated, yet it was one of the provinces that was affected by the march.
In Eastern Cape, Free State, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal no reports of major disruptions had been reported.
The Department’s strike committees in all provinces are consolidating reports about the events of the day.
The Department reminds members of SADTU of the statement issued by Cabinet last month.
“Cabinet re-iterates its support for Minister Angie Motshekga in her endeavours to improve the quality of education. Under her leadership the country has a better understanding of the challenges facing our education system. This has enabled government to provide realistic solutions. Our education is improving steadily.”
The Minister is committed and available to meet and discuss the issues raised by the union.
Enquiries:
Panyaza Lesufi,
Spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education
Cell: 072 148 9575
