The department said the majority of infections were amongst learners.
ONE HUNDRED and three new Covid-19 positive cases were recorded at schools in the Northern Cape this past week.
The department said the majority of infections were amongst learners.
Department of Education spokesperson, Geoffrey van der Merwe said several schools also had to be closed since the start of this month to prevent the spread of infections.
“A total of 69 learners, 25 educators and nine support staff had tested positive at schools. The department also had to close 29 schools as of June 1, 2021 where decontamination was required and to allow for isolation of those who tested positive. Currently 24 schools have reopened and there are five schools that are still closed in the Province,” said van der Merwe.
Van der Merwe said the rate of infections remains a concern for the department but it urges all communities to play their part in the fight against the virus.
“Although the infection rate is much lower compared to previous weeks, we remain on high alert and vigilant in terms of our response to this pandemic.
“The Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact enormously on valuable teaching and learning time in terms of curriculum coverage across all grades.
“We plead with parents to provide schools with the necessary cooperation as they implement their curriculum recovery plans. It is very important that all learners remain on par with their school work, whilst parents provide them with the necessary support at home,” he said.
He said the department will continue to monitor the situation and take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of all at the schools.
“School communities play a vital role to limit the spread of the Covid-19 infections in our schools. Let us continue to ensure our children succeed in education and become successful in life,” van der Merwe said
