Department of Education Extranet

84 Schools Closed in NC

The Northern Cape Department of Education can confirm that the number of schools that are closed due to COVID-19 have risen to 84 schools in the Province. The collaborative efforts between the Department of Education and the Department of Health have enabled schools to swiftly deal with the positive cases and contact tracing. The closure of schools is impacting on valuable learning and teaching time, but is necessary to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Since the reopening of schools on the 8th of June 2020, 69 educators and 46 learners have thus far tested positive in schools. The attendance rate in schools as recorded by our District offices for educators is at 77% and for learners is at 70%. To date, 33 schools have reopened after it was disinfected and contact tracing was done.

The Minister of Basic Education, Mrs Angie Motshekga continues to engage with stakeholders in meetings that are aimed at obtaining an input on the way forward in the context of COVID-19 as it relates to schools. An announcement on the outcome of the Minister’s engagement will be announced in due course. We wish to reiterate that it is the Cabinet that will make the decision on whether schools close or remain open.

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