Minister Grant pleased that the majority of our schools in the system continued to function as per normal

24 Apr 2013

The Western Cape Education Department final report indicates that 8% (approximately 2 400) of our educators participated in protest action.  48 schools were closed across the province today. This represents 3.2% of the schools in the province.

The most affected areas were Metro South and Metro East. Over 50% of educators that participated came from these Districts. 25 schools were closed in the Metro South District.

The District that was least affected was the Eden and Karoo District. Only 93 educators are reported to have participated in industrial action.

We have yet to receive reports of learner absenteeism (figures not currently available). However, learners at the 48 schools that closed would have been affected.

The Minister is encouraged that the overwhelming majority of our educators who could have participated in industrial action put the interests of the learners first and is pleased that the majority of our schools in the system continued to function as per normal.

The turnout at schools by both educators and learners indicates the seriousness in which learners, educators and their parents feel about ‘time on task' and the maximisation of teaching and learning time.

There were no reported incidents of intimidation or violence.

Statement issued by Donald Grant, Western Cape Minister of Education, April 24 2013

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