The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is more than ready for school's re-opening, which takes place on, Wednesday, 16 January 2013. As a department we are pleased that we have reached 100% delivery of textbooks and stationary to all Section 21 schools without C function.

Distribution of stationary to schools started on 3 September 2012. KZN Circular No.120 of 2012 was sent out to schools on 11 September 2012 advising principals to carefully check stock before signing delivery notes and report delivery problems to Circuit Offices.

"This is an important milestone in that we have reached 100% provision of Learner, Teacher Support Material (LTSM) for 2013 to schools by November 2012. This is what the MEC always say that the first second, minute and first hour of the beginning of 2013 school calendar should be used for teaching and learning and nothing else - as a department we are proud that we have achieved just that," said the Head of Department, Dr Nkosinathi Sishi.

NB: All small, medium and micro enterprise and service providers who applied for the National Schools Nutrition Programme should go to the District Offices tomorrow (9 January 2013) to check if they have been appointed to provide this service to the department. Those who will be appointed should attend a compulsory meeting which is going to take place at the Royal Show Grounds in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday 10 January at 10h00.