Department of Education Extranet

DEPARTMENT CONCERNED ABOUT FALSE INFORMATION ON THE INCUBATION CAMPS

The Northern Cape Department of Education has noted with serious concern the false and incorrect information on social media regarding the upcoming incubation camps for Grade 12 learners, with specific reference to the Namakwa Camp. This information is mischievous and aimed at misleading the public as none of the arrangements have been finalized yet. To date, no order number has been issued or service providers appointed, yet individuals pronounce on the amount of money spent. It's a pity that some individuals would go to the extent of spreading false information, whilst having no sense or information about the actual incubation camps. 

As a Department, all our efforts are geared towards saving the school academic year, with specific focus on our Grade 12 learners. These learners lost valuable learning and teaching time for the better part of the year. The only solution we have, without compromising their future, is to incubate these learners for a period of 3 months until they write the National Senior Certificate Examinations. These camps will function as normal schools where teaching, learning and assessments will be prioritised. 

The allegations have brought a dark cloud over the planned interventions and have unnecessarily tarnished the image of the Department as being corrupt. The devastating impact of the social media posts have caused huge damage and therefore leaves the Department with no other choice, but to seek legal advice on the matter. As responsible citizens of our country, it is our responsibility to verify information, that it is true and correct before publishing it in the public domain. We will also investigate where this information originates from, as it is claimed to be 'sources' within the Department. These officials will be subjected to all due disciplinary process and the appropriate action will be taken in this regard. 

This is not the time to gamble with the lives and future of our children. We find ourselves in very difficult and uncertain times whilst our country and the Province, in particular our education system are confronted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Let us work together to fight this global pandemic and do everything in our power to support our learners at home and at school. 

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