PUPILS in most Limpopo schools are about to sit for their mid-year exams, yet the provincial department of education is still expected to deliver books to schools.

The non-delivery of the books is expected to affect pupils, who would be faced with a difficult task of catching up with the syllabus.

The department was taken to court two weeks ago after it had failed to provide textbooks for its pupils.

The Pretoria High Court ruled in favour of the DA's charge that this was unconstitutional, and ordered the department to provide books for the pupils.

But most of the schools are still awaiting delivery of the books.

A source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the delay in the delivery of books would affect the pupils negatively.

"The situation has forced us to make use of outdated books just to keep the wheel turning," the source said.

According to the principal of one of the affected schools in Sekhukhune, who also chose to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals, the department had assured that money for norms and standards would be paid this week, which is expected to make their jobs easier.

"Teachers at my school have been paying out of their own pockets to buy even chalk because the money has not been forthcoming," the principal said.

The spokesman of the provincial department of education Pat Kgomo admitted there had been a problem with the release of funds since the department was placed under administration, but confirmed that payment would be made "sometime this week".

"As a department we will live up to our promise and pay the outstanding money to relieve schools of their burdens," he said . - frankm@sowetan.co.za