EUSA called on the World Health Organization and its Member States to urgently intervene to protect the lives of South African teachers and learners during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Union had approached the High Court to interdict the premature reopening of schools; the court ruled the matter was not urgent. EUSA highlighted that many schools lacked:
- SABS-approved sanitiser, hygiene supplies and stocked hand-washing stations
- the ability to reduce class sizes
- access to a nurse (85% of schools)
- clear safety policies for high-risk staff, and staff trained in safe school operations
- running water and proper toilets
- a plan to protect learners on public transport
EUSA argued that reopening violated the WHO guidance on school-related public health measures, and that promised psycho-social support for teachers had not materialised.
Issued by Scelo Bhengu, President.
