Basic Education Deputy Minister, Dr Reginah Mhaule, received her COVID-19 vaccine jab, this week. The vaccination is a critical step to minimise vulnerability and a resurgence of COVID-19 in support of Government’s efforts to reach population (herd) immunity.

“I never thought the jab will be as quick; it took just a few minutes for the entire process to be completed. The jab is fast and completely painless," said Deputy Minister Mhaule at the FF Ribeiro Clinic in Tshwane where she received her vaccination.

Dr Mhaule indicated that having been vaccinated for the virus does not necessary mean that she could be complacent about the pandemic. She maintained that observing health protocols is still critical in the fight against COVID-19. "I will therefore continue to adhere to health protocols, including wearing of a face mask, hand washing and keeping the required physical distance,” added the Deputy Minister.

According to the DBE's Health Promotion Directorate, there are over 18,000 educators who qualify to receive the vaccination across all nine provinces. Deputy Minister Mhaule called on all education stakeholders who are 60 years of age and above to register for the vaccination. “I encourage young men and women to assist the elderly with the registration process of the vaccine rollout and ensure that they too are vaccinated.  I extend my gratitude to the health experts working for the Department of Health for the effective administration of the vaccine rollout. Their efforts, through the support of the nation, will surely yield positive results," concluded the Deputy Minister.