The Minister of Basic Education, Ms. Siviwe Gwarube, has called for caution after recent food poisoning incidents affected several learners. Investigations have revealed that the food items causing the illnesses were purchased outside school premises and contained harmful chemicals, including organophosphates, a type of pesticide. These chemicals are highly toxic and pose a serious risk, especially to children.
Speaking at a press briefing on the progress of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams and learner safety, Minister Gwarube stressed the importance of protecting children.
She urged parents, communities, and food vendors to be careful when handling and storing pesticides.
The Department of Basic Education is working closely with the Department of Health to create safety guidelines for schools to reduce the risk of pesticides entering school environments.
Minister Gwarube also revealed plans to explore legal actions to prevent the use and storage of such dangerous chemicals in schools.
“We want to ensure that schools are safe environments for our learners. No school should store or use pesticides that could harm children,” said Minister Gwarube.
The Department stated that, it’s committed to taking all necessary steps to protect learners and provide a safe place for them to learn and grow.
