Zwide school closed as teacher awaits test result
Though Khwezi Lomso Comprehensive School was ready for the reopening of schools on Monday, the school was forced to close as a teacher is awaiting a Covid-19 test result.
Education MEC Fundile Gade’s spokeperson, Vuyiseka Mboxela, said the school had been closed as a precautionary measure and confirmed that the department had sent officials from the district offices of the departments of education and health.
“It’s confirmed that one teacher fell sick during the weekend. They consulted a doctor who sent her for testing. She is awaiting her results.
“The department made sure that the entire staff along with the principal went through the relevant government procedures in order to determine which steps would be taken.
“For instance in terms of deep cleaning, fumigating of the school, that is what is currently happening.
“When that is done they will determine when the school is going to be opened or if any pupils and staff need to be self-isolated while tests are taking place.”
Mboxela said the next steps would be determined through consultations with the department of health.
“Our staff were in control, the orientation worked well, because the teachers knew what to do immediately and the department is taking them through all protocols,” Mboxela said.
EFF Eastern Cape MPL Litha Zibula said he went to the school on Monday to assess its state of readiness for returning matrics.
“I approached the principal as he was busy assembling the teachers.
“He told the pupils to go home.
“Why would a school be closed unless someone has tested positive?
“People self-isolate after they come into contact with a person who tested positive.”
Zibula shared a letter from the school in which principal Thanduxolo Nqolose allegedly apologised to parents for any confusion caused by the school.
“Our school premises were 100% ready to receive pupils, the education and health departments are working around the clock in dealing with the situation.
“Parents will be notified as to when to send pupils to the school.
“Please stay home and remember to wash your hands, wear your mask around people and mostly social distance yourself,” the letter read.
The letter is not signed by Nqolose.
He declined to comment.