9 420 coronavirus cases, with the Western Cape being the biggest contributor to the figures, News24 reported.
Explaining the increase in cases, Mkhize said one of the features of the pandemic in the province was the outbreak in “clusters” of infections. These were primarily in factories and busy retail areas.
Schreuder said in the letter that while he was aware that teachers were keen to return to school in the interests of pupils and recovering time lost due to the pandemic, there was also a need for safety to be considered.
“But in light of the above, we are of the opinion that this decision is only fair to Western Cape teachers.”
Motshekga previously said the department would be guided by health in ensuring that the phasing in of pupils resumes from June.
In order for this to happen, all necessary training and personal protective equipment (PPE) needs to be delivered to schools to ensure that teaching and learning takes place in a safe space without the risk of the virus spreading.
The provisional dates announced by the minister were that SMTs return from 11 May to prepare for pupils, teachers follow on 18 May, and then the phasing-in of Grade 7s and 12s from 1 June.
Once the dates are finalised, the minister said she would then gazette the updated school calendar accordingly.
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