​Qaqambile Mdledle
Gauteng Premier David Makhura has urged parents to let their children vaccinate and support them so that we can beat fourth wave of COVID-19. 
"Parents are encouraged to help spread the positive message about vaccination and to convince family, friends and learners that vaccination is safe and that it could save their lives."
Premier Makhura was speaking during the launch of School Communities Vaccination Programme at Maphutha Secondary School in Mayibuye, Midrand.
Premier said school zone-based vaccination programme, will help bridge the healthcare access inequality by using schools as vaccination sites in areas with low vaccine uptake. 
"Parents, caregivers and legal guardians urged to sign consent forms, available at schools, if a learner will be vaccinated at a school site. Families are also encouraged to have open discussions with their children about the benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine, to help them make informed health choices," said premier.
Chairperson of the Premier's Advisory Council Dr Mary Kawonga, said to stay protected from COVID-19 people must vaccinate and continue wearing masks, sanitising and maintaining a physical distance.
"Let us avoid risky behaviours of large gatherings as they put us in greater risk. We need to vaccinate as this is the most powerful weapon to defeat the Omicron variant. We are in a better position than we were during the 1st wave - we have vaccines and the best scientists," she said.
Zinhle Nkosi, 17 years old was one of the first learner to be vaccinated at the school encouraged others vaccinate to beat fourth wave of infections. 
"I decided to get vaccinated because I have seen a lot of people who have been infected by COVID-19 and some of them succumbed to the virus.," she said.
Premier also oversaw the vaccination of 17-year-old Mbkezeli at Maphutha Secondary School in Mayibuye Avenue. 
As at 13 December 2021, 7.4 million vaccinations have been administered, with 4.7 million people receiving one dose of either J&J or Pfizer and 3.9 million people have been fully vaccinated in Gauteng.