Statement by Yousuf Gabru, MEC for Education in the Western Cape

Yousuf Gabru, MEC for Education in the Western Cape, today expressed disappointment over the low turn-out of learners at some schools because of Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Some schools reported that parents decided to keep learners at home because of a practice to smear learners on their way to or from school with polish or paint.

In many instances the culprits are older children or adults.

Mr Gabru condemned these actions and said he will ask the department to investigate the matter in more detail. He called on parents to make arrangements for their children to get safely to and from schools rather than keep them at home. "There should never be an assumption that children can be kept home, except on official school holidays."

For enquiries, contact Millicent Merton:  072 724 1422 or mmerton@pgwc.gov.za.

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