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The Department of Basic Education has warned that the possibility of a national shutdown would have a negative impact on learners writing examinations.
This comes as the matric class of 2021 is due to sit for their preliminary exams on Monday following the scrapping of the mid-year exams amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Basic Education Department Spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga says, “If the shutdown goes ahead then it is going to have a major impact on those writing today. But we heard the police issuing a statement yesterday saying they are ready for it. So we are hoping they would assist us to keep law and order so we can proceed with education. We cannot afford more disruptions to schooling because we have already lost a lot of time.”
Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal government is appealing for calm as unconfirmed reports continue around a national shutdown.
Unconfirmed statements have been circulating on social media sites.
In a statement from the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, Major General Mathapelo Peters says security forces are on high alert to maintain stability in the country.
[JUST IN ] In a statement the (NatJOINTS) says Law Enforcement Agencies including @SAPoliceService are on high alert and have put measures in place to ensure the safety and security of South Africans amidst threats of a #NationalShutdown on Monday.
— Lirandzu Themba (@LirandzuThemba) August 22, 2021
Its business as usual in Soweto amid threats of a #NationalShutdown. Comuters at the busy Bara taxi rank are boarding and getting of taxis. Police say they are on high alert. #SABCNEWS pic.twitter.com/CfCaKf4S8s
— Tshepo (@tphagane) August 23, 2021