By Katlego Sekhu
This week, the Democratic Alliance submitted an application before the high court in Pretoria compelling schools to open fully.
The party states that the regulations preventing some children from attending school every day of the week are unconstitutional and without justification limit the rights to basic education, a child’s best interest, and equality.
Responding to the application, the Department of Basic Education revealed that they are not against this and have made the necessary recommendations to the National Corona Virus Command Council. The cabinet is expected to announce the ending of the rotational school system next week.
Thomas believes it’s now time that children go back to school. He says it’s unfair that there are children in the suburbs who are attending school every day while children in the township are missing out on important lessons. Also, not everyone can afford data for online classes.
Kaya 959 listeners weigh in on the matter
A parent and a teacher by profession called in to share his perspective from both sides.
“The issue of kids not going to school is affecting everyone as they need someone to care for them,” he says.
“Everyone has a right to education and the school infrastructure was built to accommodate only a certain number of learners.
He further states that the pandemic has made it clear that many things need to change.
“So many parents bring their kids to Gauteng. It burdens the system and when we bring back them in we’re looking at 70 learners per class.
“The pandemic made it clear that things have to change. Most learners are two years behind and we need a restructure. It’s difficult for a teacher to reach out to 70 plus learners, also, social distancing is a big factor,” he added.
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