About 180 schools vandalized during unrest
The minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, has confirmed that about 180 schools, both in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Gauteng were vandalized and looted during the week-long unrest.
“The KZN Department of Education has submitted a list of one hundred and thirty seven (137) schools which were vandalised, three (3) education centres, and eight (8) circuit offices which were affected. In Gauteng, more than forty three (43) schools have been vandalised since the year began. Eleven (11) of the cases, were reported after schools went on a recess on 02 July 2021. Twenty nine (29) of the 43 schools have already been repaired, and work is underway to finish the others as soon as possible” said the minister.
The minister condemned the incidents, saying that the education sector will suffer major setbacks as school infrastructure was damaged.
“This senseless attack on the education infrastructure, leads to the vandalism of ablution blocks and plumbing equipment; destruction of water supplies, including theft of school water tanks; ripping off of electric wires, especially copper cables; ripping school fences; setting alight libraries, textbooks and stationery,” said the minister.
She also explained how the added pressure will make it difficult for some schools to re-open.
The minister addressed the media on Friday, July 23 on the department’s state of readiness for the reopening of schools.
Minister Motshekga also outlined the basic education sector’s response to the impact of COVID-19 on sector. She said some School Management Teams and support staff have already gone back to work on Thursday, July 22.
According to the minister, schools are ready for the return of learners and teachers on Monday, July 26.