Question NW2973 to the Minister of Basic Education
20 October 2017 - NW2973
Ollis, Mr IM to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(a) How many teachers at (i) schools for learners with special needs and (ii) full-service schools were absent from work in the (aa) 2014-15, (bb) 2015-16 and (cc) 2016-17 financial years in each school district in each province, (b) what were the main reasons cited in the approval of leave, (c) what steps have been taken by (i) her department and (ii) each provincial department to address the problem of absenteeism and (d) what assistance has been given by (i) her department and (ii) each provincial department to learners who have to catch up on the curriculum due to teacher absenteeism?
Reply:
(a) (i), (ii)(aa), (bb), (cc); (b); (c) (i);(ii); (d)(i),(ii).
The Department monitors teacher attendance in terms of the indicators in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF). The details in terms of absenteeism in specified schools and how it is managed and matters related to curriculum coverage can only be provided by the Provincial Education Departments (PEDs). The honourable member is advised to request this information directly from the provinces.