Gauteng Education MEC urges learners to attend school despite cold weather

Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has called on students across the province to attend school as usual, despite freezing temperatures forecasted in various regions. Maile emphasized that cold weather alone should not prevent teaching and learning from taking place. He advised parents to ensure their children are dressed warmly and travel safely to school. The department warned that the cold weather may make temperatures feel colder due to rain, cloud cover, and wind.

Maile urged school communities to stay informed about official weather updates from the SA Weather Service. Parents and guardians were encouraged to make sure their children are dressed appropriately for the cold weather, including wearing school jerseys, jackets, and other warm clothing. The department expressed concern for learners who may need additional warm clothing due to the weather, and schools were asked to provide extra support where necessary.

Maile stressed that as long as learners are healthy and do not need to be absent for health reasons, they should attend school as normal in cold weather. However, he cautioned against making fires on school premises for warmth, as open fires pose significant safety risks. He reminded learners and school staff of the importance of remaining vigilant and ensuring that everyone stays warm through safe and responsible means, such as dressing warmly, using approved heating sources, and following all safety guidelines.