The Northern Cape Department of Education has recorded 526 new infections at schools in the Province this past week.
A SHARP increase in Covid-19 infections at Northern Cape schools this past week has seen the temporary closure of eight schools to allow for contact tracing and disinfection.
The Northern Cape Department of Education said that the increase in Covid cases in schools has been higher this past week as compared to the previous three weeks.
The department recorded 526 new infections, which includes 54 educators, 439 learners and 33 support staff members.
Five of the affected schools are scheduled to reopen on Monday.
Department spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe said they have developed curriculum recovery plans to try and deal with the major disruptions to schooling caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The department is deeply concerned about the loss of learning and teaching time. Our district offices have developed curriculum recovery plans for those schools directly affected by the pandemic,” said Van der Merwe.
“The department is currently running weekend lock-in and Saturday classes to support the matric class of 2021.
“This places an increased strain on our educators, learners and support staff at schools to ensure that the trimmed curriculum is fully covered and learners are well prepared for the end-of-year examinations.”
Van der Merwe added that the department is doing its utmost to support all educators and learners during these difficult times.
“We are all in this together, working under tremendous pressure and we will succeed if we continue to work together.
“Our school communities play a crucial role in supporting the schools in their respective communities and we urge all to adhere to the Covid-19 regulations at all times.
“Let us support the Class of 2021,” concluded Van der Merwe.
