Department of Education Extranet

MEC Zolile Monakali assessing the reopening of schools in Namakwa

The MEC for Education,  Mr Zolile Monakali visited the Namakwa District today to assess the reopening of schools in Port Nolloth. The MEC visited the Port Nolloth High School and the Port Nolloth Primary School and was satisfied with their readiness to receive learners. These schools have with the support of the Namakwa District Offices ensured that all systems are in place to receive learners, whilst adhering to COVID-19 regulations and guidelines.

The MEC was accompanied by the Mayor of the Richtersveld Municipality, Councillor Arthur Jansen, Ward Councillor Beukes and the District Director, Mr PTA Cloete. As part of the oversight visits to schools, the MEC deemed it necessary to provide learners with school uniforms and school shoes. MEC Monakali handed over 50 sets of school uniforms to deserving learners at the Port Nolloth High and Primary School. This gesture by the MEC will definitely contribute to the educational needs of these learners and have a positive impact on their attendance.

The MEC encouraged educators and learners to practice good hygiene and social distance to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in our schools. He stated that the Department will raise the bar of Education this year, and we need the commitment of parents, educators and learners in our quest to improve the quality of public education. The Department will provide the necessary support to the District offices and schools to ensure a successful 2021 school academic year.

The Department will conduct a 10 days snapshot survey that will give us a clear indication if indeed other challenges do exist at schools. This report will be released after 10 days of schooling as from today and we are looking forward to receiving this report to address the challenges in the system. The Department remains optimistic about the 2021 school academic year and are confident that the curriculum delivery for all grades will be completed with minimal disruptions.

Please find attached the speech delivered by the MEC and a photo taken at Port Nolloth High School during the handing over of school uniform.

End.