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Independent schools can open from February 1.
- TThe Department of Basic Education says that students in public schools will officially return to class on February 15, 2021.
- But private schools will be able to open two weeks earlier, on February 1, according to the Government Gazette.
- The opening of schools was brought forward two weeks in light of Covid-19.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga says public school students are expected to return to classrooms on February 15, but private schools will be able to open two weeks earlier.
On Friday, the Department of Basic Education published a notice in the Government Gazette after Motshekga announced, on January 15, that the opening would be advanced two weeks in light of Covid-19.
“Independent schools must delay the date of reopening of schools so that students return to school for a period of two weeks from the date of the minister’s pronouncement, January 15, 2021. Independent schools cannot open before the two-week period … Officials can access the school premises during the closing period if necessary, in order to prepare before the schools reopen, “Motshekga said.
Education spokesman Elijah Mhlanga could not be reached for comment, however, he confirmed to TimesLive that the gazette meant independent schools would open on February 1.
According to Motshekga’s announcement on January 15, public schools would open as follows:
- The principal, school management team, including education assistants and general assistants (Basic Education Employment Initiative), and non-teaching staff are due to return to school on January 25, 2021.
- All educators must return to school by February 1, 2021.
- All students must return to school by February 15, 2021.
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