SADTU opposes reopening of schools citing social distancing concerns
The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) says the Basic Education Department has jumped the gun by committing prematurely to a schools return date.
The department has announced that Grades 7s and 12s could head back to school next week as part of an initial return phase.
It also said by then it would have deep cleaned learning spaces, installed all necessary preventative tools such as sanitizers at entry and exit points and ensure that learner sit in classrooms at the recommended distance regulations.
SADTU's Nomusa Cembi says their inspections have shown that none of this has been put in place with just days to go before the possible return date.
READ: Schools could reopen on 6 May
She's also concerned about the promised distancing in classrooms.
"We were shocked. There isn't anything on the ground that shows the department is preparing to put things in place."
"We are opposed to that because it is still early. A lot still needs to be done."
"Social distancing should be two metres, in fact. As things stand our schools are still overcrowded, we do not see a plan as to how the department will go about to ensure that learners and teachers and everybody in school are two metres apart."
The Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga will address the situation in a press conference this afternoon.
NOW READ: Mid-year matric exams postponed
