Hopes, dreams as schools open

ADMISSION: DELAYS AS SOME PUPILS STILL NOT PLACED

- Thando Nondywana

Thousands of pupils across the country returned to classes yesterday to kick off the new school year. Although some areas faced delays, jubilant parents expressed optimism for pupils starting Grades 1 and 8.

Luyanda Gebashe, a parent of a pupil beginning Grade 1 in Soweto, said this was an exciting moment for her.

“I am excited. This was our first choice and we didn’t encounter any challenges. It’s a good school, one we’ve been looking forward to. He was so happy last night and couldn’t sleep. He woke up early and got ready because he wanted to be on time,” she said.

“We hope he will get good grades and participate in class. He loves school but is also naughty, like any boy. I want him to become a doctor, but I told him to listen to his teachers and respect other pupils.”

But other parents who arrived early at Braamfischerville Primary School in Soweto were sad.

Mary Mbele, a foster parent of a Grade 1 pupil, said she had been turned away and told to return on Tuesday.