06 May 2020

Minister of Basic Education, Mr Fidelis Molao, has reaffirmed his ministry's commitment to continue with schools academic calendar subject to approval by Parliament.

Debating a motion on affirmation of Emergency Powers (COVID-19) amendment regulations today (May 6), Minister Molao said this would be done only if schools satisfy health officials on ability to prevent spread of the coronavirus.

He told Parliament that from May 8, they would be ready to open schools in a phased manner and in satisfaction of all regulations relating to COVID-19.

Minister Molao said a programme was in place and it would be rolled out for this year's school calendar starting with pupils set to sit for their final examinations (Standard 7, Form 3 and 5).

He said they were currently in consultations with relevant authorities in the educations sector. Mr Molao said a committee in his ministry, led by the director of basic education, met with union leaders last week and agreed on gradual opening of schools.

He assured parents that no school would open without following proper regulations.

Minister Molao admitted that they were working on a tight budget and recently finance minister withdrew about P816million from the ministry vote. He urged all involved to utilise resources prudently.

He, however, assured the house that plans were already in place to put forth a post COVID-19 stimulus package. He said this would be part of the package to revitalize the economy.  Ends