SANTACO-WC minibus taxi strike is destroying teaching and learning in the Western Cape

Statement by Minister David Maynier, Minister of Education Western Cape

As a result of the SANTACO-WC minibus taxi strike, 852 259 learners stayed home from school today, which is 71% of the learners in our schools.

The number of schools that had to close due to safety concerns or low attendance has more than tripled from yesterday, with 92 schools closed today.

This is a devastating blow to teaching and learning in our province, at a time when we are still trying to reverse learning losses from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The fact is that SANTACO-WC’s minibus taxi strike is destroying teaching and learning in the Western Cape.

The metro districts were again hit hard, with attendance rates of between 10% and 20%. Disruption to the Learner Transport Scheme in the Cape Winelands and West Coast education districts also contributed to reduced attendance.

While some of the learners were not able to reach school due to transport disruption, others were kept home as their parents feared for their safety given the violence associated with the strike action. A large amount of fake news spread on social media yesterday further heightened fears.

The number of staff unable to reach school remained roughly the same as on Monday, with 17 725 staff absent today.

Thankfully, we have not yet had any reports from our schools of damages or attacks on school properties, but we appeal to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.

Please, do not spread unverified information on social media. This makes it harder for law enforcement to do their job, and presents a risk to our learners and staff. Fake news is generating fear and chaos, and does not serve the best interests of our children.

We simply cannot afford to compromise our children’s futures by losing any more teaching and learning time.

Media Enquiries:
Kerry Mauchline
Spokesperson to Minister David Maynier
Western Cape Ministry of Education
Kerry.Mauchline@westerncape.gov.za