South Africa Minister says 95% of Schools to Re-Open

South African schools are reopening after government eased lockdown measures, with the education minister saying 95% of the learning institutions have met requirements for safe reopening.

The government has disinfected school premises and distributed masks and personal protective gear. The re-opening of schools was postponed by one week to allow for full compliance.

Local broadcasters have been sharing videos of learners streaming back to schools on Monday.

It's back to school for Grade 7 and 12 pupils today. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga claims 95 percent of schools are ready to reopen. She is visiting schools on the East Rand. Courtesy #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/QHoJsIDciJ

— eNCA (@eNCA) June 8, 2020

School administrators are ensuring that students are adhering to social distancing, washing of hands and having their temperatures checked on arrival.

Minister Angie Motshekga said they are working on schools that are not ready for reopening, with the biggest challenge being the sanitation of premises.

She also cited the vandalism of more than 1,000 that happened after schools closed as another challenge.

The minister said no school that is not compliant will be allowed to re-open but that no learner shall be left behind.