According to IgbereTV report, Children in South Africa have started returning to their schools on Monday as part of a gradual lifting of lockdown restrictions imposed in the country.
The reports disclosed that there were delays in the re-opening of schools after teachers’ unions urged school staff to defy the government order last week, saying schools lacked sufficient health and hygiene measures to keep educators and pupils safe.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said on Sunday that ramped up efforts to equip schools over the past week meant that 95% of South Africa’s primary and secondary schools were now able to host classes.
The government will find alternative arrangements for pupils at schools unable to open on Monday, she said.
Initially, only pupils in grades 7 and 12 will return to class, with other years phased in gradually.
According to analysts, many of South Africa’s government schools especially those in rural areas are in poor shape with no running water, making hand-washing nearly impossible.
