Education Activist Hendrick Makaneta has called on the Gauteng Department of Education to consider closing schools early in the midst of the fourth wave of Covid-19.
“The fourth wave of the pandemic is with us and numbers do not lie. There is no doubt that Gauteng province is the hardest hit. It therefore makes sense that as activists in the terrain of education we should call on authorities in the province to do something about this unbearable situation and the early closure of schools seems to be the most reasonable and right thing to do.” Makaneta said.
Makaneta said schools have concluded the academic year and the examinations are over.
Makaneta believes that closing schools early will protect the vulnerable teachers and support staff from contracting the fourth wave of the virus.
“Society in general should demand that government take a stance to manage Omicron in a manner that will avoid loss of lives and livelihoods particularly during the festive season.” Makaneta added.
He said health experts have already warned us of the possible increase in the number of people being admitted in hospitals, specifically in Gauteng.
Makaneta added that MEC Panyaza Lesufi, in consultation with Minister Angie Motshekga and the Council of Education Ministers should urgently convene a meeting and agree to close schools on 10 December 2021.
