Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has come out to defend the brightly coloured red and yellow McDonald's branded learner desks, which can be folded into bags that the kids can carry home.

The department has partnered with the world renowned fast-food franchise to provide mobile desks to impoverished schools.

A THOUGHT PROCESS

Speaking on the sidelines of the 10th annual Basic Education Lekgotla in Boksburg, Gwarube said they looked at various factors before considering their collaboration with McDonald's and that this was not a hasty decision.

She added the department was faced with financial strain in terms of infrastructure development and this was a welcomed solution.

"Firstly, these desks have been approved by UNESCO, they are 2kg heavy and UNESCO has indicated that these are absolutely appropriate but what is important for me is that there are children in this country who go to places and homes where they don't have even an area to do their homework." The desk or chair backpack is designed to be used throughout a child?s school careers, according to the MiDesk website.

CRITICISM

Gwarube got backlash from social media users, who complained that carrying a desk and school back would be strenuous especially to learners who are likely to walk home after school.

However, Gwarube defended the department saying that the initiative was innovative in giving less fortunate children some help to continue learning at home.