GEORGE NEWS - Schools Hour, a weekly radio programme on EDENfm, has been a beacon of hope for many teachers, parents and learners during this time of lockdown. Last night, Wednesday 6 May, besides motivating messages from principals and teachers, there was also a discussion about the sticky issue of the reopening of schools.

Leaders of unions such as Naptosa and Sadtu also talked about the measures that need to be in place for a safe return to school. Basil Manuel, executive director of Naptosa, said that they are concerned about the availability of enough replacement teachers, as well as the future of teachers older than 60.

Manuel said they need to work through lots of documentation before they will be satisfied that schools can be fully functional when teachers go back.

The overwhelming message from principals was that parents should keep their children safe and at home, and that they should not be worried about their children falling behind on schoolwork. 

George High principal Morten van Rooyen said when schools re-open, his school will start with an intensive programme to help learners catch up, because they are aware that many learners do not have access to e-learning aids such as internet, data or smartphones. 

Gerhard Ackerman of Blanco Primary thanked his staff and the school governing body members for giving parents the support they need during this time. He also thanked everyone who gave a hand to the community. 

The principal of Heidelberg High said they want their learners to keep up with schoolwork at home, despite the challenging circumstances and possible boredom. 

He encouraged learners with the message that there will be a time when we can look back on this as something of the past.

Schools Hour is presented by Roger Jacobs of the local district office of the Department of Education and you can listen in on a Wednesday night from 19:00 - 20:00.

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