This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic, South Africa's schools are set to re-open on June 1, despite concerns over the high risk of new infections.
According to President Cyril Ramaphosa's Covid task team, educators, public health officials, and other parties have been in discussions for weeks on the schools re-opening issue.
Under pressure to return to a 'new normal', the team has announced plans for a stepped approach, beginning with the last years of junior and high schools.
Grade 7 and Grade 12 pupils will return to school on June 1, while starter grades will follow on July 8, Basic Education minister Motshekga confirmed.
However, many are questioning whether schools are prepared to re-open safely, with some organisations and educators arguing that the academic year should be cancelled altogether.
The Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) has warned that at least 5,000 schools are 'not ready' to re-open, increasing the risk of Covid-19 infections.
With over 30,500 schools and nearly half a million teachers affected, the decision to return to classrooms is a major step towards 'normalising' society during the pandemic.
