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The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education has welcomed the 45 additional Afrikaans teachers that were made available to schools in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth.

Committee Chairperson, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, said the Committee noted the violent protests that have taken place in this areas and the fact that schools have not opened since the start of the third term.

“We hope that this will bring stability to the areas. It is important for schools to reopen as soon as possible so learning of learners can commence. We are concerned because matric exams are a few months away. Preparation for these exams and for the exams of other learners is vital.

“We urge all stakeholders, including the parents, learners, community and officials to put the education of our learners first and come to a speedy resolution,” said Ms Gina.

The Eastern Cape Basic Education Department yesterday said that the National Department of Basic Education came to its rescue by providing 45 Afrikaans teachers, including 30 Afrikaans medium foundation phase and 15 Afrikaans- medium teachers for mathematics, science and other critical subjects.

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Ms Nomalungelo Gina