#CelebritiesAreNotTeachers : Department of Basic Education Under Fire

The controversial star studded line up of celebrity teachers, as pictured in this poster which set the online social media community astir,
Source: twitter.com/dbe_sa

Nokwanda Ncwane

The Department of Basic Education in South Africa faced heavy criticism for allegedly using celebrities to conduct online classes during the national lockdown. Qualified teachers and ordinary citizens took to social media to express their unhappiness over the decision.

Cynthia Mills, a Western Cape high school teacher said that the celebrities are busy teaching and they have no idea what they're doing. Mills teaches Grade 9-12 at the moment and has 3 years experience in teaching Grade 4-6.

"I have been in constant contact with my learners through 5 WhatsApp groups for all my classes. When schools reopen the onus will be on us to catch up and to undo what has been done if learners were taught incorrectly. If you aren't qualified with experience, rather step back and let the professionals handle it." Said Mills

Another teacher, Sphamandla Zulu said that education is not entertainment, there are Codes of Ethics."What was the use of registering with the South African Council for Educators if some celebrities can simply get gigs? We need qualified and registered teachers for our children. It's disrespect to our profession and unions." Said Zulu.

The Department of Basic Education Spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga said that there's confusion between the STEM Lockdown Digital Classroom branding (which is conducted by qualified teachers) and the STEM Lockdown Reading Club by volunteer celebrities. These two launched at the same time and they look alike.

"None of these celebrities will be paid. They volunteered their time. It's more like friends getting together to do something constructive during the #COVID19 pandemic. Nothing more." Mhlanga added.

The Africa Teen Geeks also released a statement clarifying that MsZora by Africa Teen Geeks in partnership with the Department of Basic Education and the Sasol Foundation presented the FREE STEM Lockdown Digital School. A call out was made to all teachers countrywide, they received over 9000 applications and selected only 56 teachers and these are teachers with experience ranging from 5-20 years.

Duduzile Kubheka, one of the qualified teaches said to be conducting online classes, in the Lockdown digital migration wave.
Source: twitter.com/dbe_sa

"It's important to note that it's reading not teaching, to promote awareness of the campaign which is targeted at Grade R-3. This initiative is aimed at supporting the Department of Basic Education efforts to keep learning and teaching going even during the current lockdown, following the closure of schools to combat the spread of Coronavirus." The statement continued to read.

TV Personality Penny Lebyane, who is also part the Reading Club said she fails to understand the outrage. She added that she is not a celebrity and is not offended.