Tears, laughter and severe weather mark first day of schooling

More than 1,2 million children countrywide started their Grade 1 schooling when the academic year commenced on Wednesday 17 January. The day was marked by tears, laughter and smiles from the little ones as they embarked on their 12 year journey to matric. In some parts of KwaZulu-Natal learners were released early due to a severe weather warning by the SA Weather Service. The province has been struck by flooding that has led to the deaths of more than 40 people since December last year. In provinces like Gauteng there were reports of frustrated parents still battling to get their children enrolled into school. Photo: Mpumalanga Department of Education