The Gauteng Department of Education notes with concern a range of developments which continue to threaten the smooth running of the matric preliminary examinations, the normalisation of learning and teaching, and the matric recovery programme. These developments include the convening of mass meetings during contact teaching time, the withdrawal of educator participation in the matric recovery programme and informal threats of school disruptions.
With less than 35 days until the start of the matric exams, we believe the time has come to put the matric class of 2010 first. We are making an urgent call to all educators, parents, learners and the community at large to assist us in this vital task. To prepare our learners for the final examination, they need help to successfully complete the prelim exams and the matric recovery programme thereafter.
To protect our preliminary exam centres, matric recovery sites, and prevent mass meetings during school contact time, Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has secured an urgent interdict with the labour court. We are saddened that the continual threats to teaching and learning in the province have made this necessary. At this point in time, with so little time left, we have to choose our learners.
We wish to support the stance taken by the national Minister of Basic Education on Tuesday when she said, "Our Grade 12s are deserving of our special support during this time. We need to build their confidence and restore their hope. These young men and women are on the cusp of entering new lives, either the world of work or further and higher education and training. They need all the support they can get. I am calling on all South Africans to rally behind the class of 2010."
For more information contact:
Charles Phahlane
Tell: 011 355 1530
Cell: 071 860 4496
Source: Sapa
