FEDUSA Welcomes Timely Roll-out of Vaccines for Educators and Support Staff
20 June 2021
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) has welcomed plans by the Ministry of Basic Education to vaccinate all adults in the sector over the next two weeks. On Saturday, 19 June 2021, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced details of the Johnson & Johnson vaccination roll-out for 582 000 educators, administrators, and support staff from both public and private schools in the sector; where FEDUSA affiliated unions HOSPERSA, NAPTOSA, PSA and SAOU all enjoy extensive membership.
The display of commitment to the implementation of the roll-out as a priority, demonstrates assurance of the wellbeing and security of educators as the roll-out commences from Wednesday, the 23rd June 2021 to Thursday, 8th July 2021.
The process will be inclusive of weekdays and weekends with no age limitation. FEDUSA nonetheless extends a reminder to all of its members that the vaccination process is voluntary but acknowledges the opportunity to the education sector to return to normality and to ensure that the academic catch-up process can be fast tracked due to the resultant challenges brought forth by the pandemic.
Non-pharmaceutical health and safety protocols such as compliance with social distancing, sanitizing and the regular washing of hands will remain in place. The feedback that all provinces are ready to commence with the campaign is equally welcoming, but FEDUSA and its affiliated unions will continually monitor and track progress reports to ensure both targets and compliance remain in place.
“The Minister should be applauded for the inclusivity of her approach, by ensuring that all school staff are vaccinated as the country continue its drive and focus to reach herd immunity. FEDUSA will continue to advocate and encourage members to comply with health and safety protocols so that they can protect themselves, their co-workers and families,” said FEDUSA General Secretary Riefdah Ajam.
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For interviews requests please contact:
Dr Lufuno Mulaudzi
FEDUSA Vice President: Public Sector
076 290 5927
Ms Riefdah Ajam
FEDUSA General Secretary
079 696 2625
