Though the first day of the academic year brought a jubilant atmosphere to most schools across Nelson Mandela Bay, recurring problems including overcrowding and vandalism were experienced in the northern areas and townships.
Smiles and some tears as schools reopen By Riaan Marais, Zamandulo Malonde and Roslyn Baatjies-Klaasen - 16 February 2021
NOT TODAY: Grade R learner Avuyile Jilimba, 5, tries to return to mom Yonelisa Jilimba (in blue) on his first day at school at Mbasa Primary School in Motherwell Image: WERNER HILLS
While the usual first-day fears were apparent on the faces of some pupils, it was predominately sanitising and smiles across Nelson Mandela Bay at the start of “big school” on Monday. At high schools, the majority of pupils said they were just excited to be reunited with their friends after the prolonged school holiday.