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TEACHERS TOLD TO REPORT HEADS WHO OPEN SCHOOLS

08/06/2009 Parents fatching their kids from school after they were send home early this morning. PIC: © SECHABA NHLAPO
08/06/2009 Parents fatching their kids from school after they were send home early this morning. PIC: © SECHABA NHLAPO

HUNDREDS of pupils were turned away from schools as the South African Democratic Teachers' Union continued to disrupt schools across Soweto yesterday.

HUNDREDS of pupils were turned away from schools as the South African Democratic Teachers' Union continued to disrupt schools across Soweto yesterday.

Sadtu members interrupted classes and examinations, demanding that teachers down tools until the controversial appointment letters for their preferred principals have been signed.

Pupils at Winnie Ngwekazi Primary School in Pimville said they were told to go home after writing only one of the two examination papers scheduled for today.

A Grade 7 pupil, Themba Hlubi, 14, said Sadtu members arrived and told teachers to attend a meeting.

"They threatened to wreak havoc if they come back again and find pupils at the school" said Hlubi.

However, pupils said they were told they can attend school today.

At a gathering of about 400 Sadtu members at the Soweto College of Education, Sadtu regional spokesperson Ronald Nyathi said the union is "very happy no education district is operating in Soweto".

"Tomorrow [today] we will deploy members to ensure that no school is operating until the appointment letters have been signed," he said.

Nyathi said they will manage the strike in a "politically scientific manner".

He urged teachers to report principals who go "against the mandate of the union".

"If you see a school operating, stop your car, go into the school and discipline them," Nyathi said.

The union will hold yet another mass meeting today at 10am to "find ways to intensify their campaign".

The union started disrupting classes and work at district offices last week .

Gauteng education department spokesperson Nanagolo Leopeng said they are disturbed by reports of assault and intimidation of teachers, principals and pupils.

"We have initiated discussions with the union to find a resolution to this matter."

"The department calls on all teachers not to participate in these disruptive actions."

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