This, after grade 4-11 learners in this town only started with the 2019 curriculum at the beginning of this week. Learners in this town, situated about 140km south-west of Bloemfontein, had to spend the whole month of January revising the 2018 curriculum before writing exams in February. 

They were compelled to write exams before starting with this year’s academic work after schooling in the area was disrupted by violent service delivery protests that erupted last in October leading to the shutdown of schools and businesses in the area. 

The Department’s spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, says learners in this town have now started with this year’s academic work, and are confident they will complete it in time. He says learning and teaching are running smoothly and is hopeful there will be no further disruptions this year.

Ndaba says learners in this town are being provided with extra-classes and that they will also have classes during the first week of the upcoming Easter Holidays.

This town again made headlines in the past few days as the Mayor, Thandie Reachable, tendered her resignation and finally vacated office.

Residents in this town have for months been calling for her resignation. At the height of protests last year, many called on the provincial government to remove her from her position on grounds that she failed to ensure the provision of service delivery. They also alleged that she was corrupt and issued tenders irregularly to her friends and family members.

Community members also protested against lack of job opportunities, stating that whenever there are employment opportunities then community members from other neighbouring towns are afforded those opportunities instead of the local residents.

It is alleged that her resignation comes after the ANC’s intervention following residents’ proclamations that they were going to boycott the upcoming general elections on May 8.

OFM News