The protests by irate residents in that area earlier obstructed the evacuation of 275 grade 12 learners amidst today’s start of final examinations. The departmental spokesperson, Elias Malindi, says Matsemela is expected to address the media about the state of examinations in the province. He says she will also address the ongoing situation at Bloemhof, Khuma, and Kanana townships where there have been protests as a result of various issues which include a lack of service delivery and a high unemployment rate amongst the youth. 

Meanwhile, all 275 grade 12 pupils in the troubled Boitumelong have been safely evacuated to a safer place for the start of their final examinations today.

Police spokesperson, Sabata Mokgwabone, said eight people in that area have been arrested since the start of the shutdown. Mokgwabone says parents had to bring their children to the point of evacuation after bus drivers organised by the department refused to drive into the township amidst fear of their safety. 

One resident earlier told OFM News that learners will not be allowed to write their exams as long as their demands have not been met. This as they want some members of the Anti-gang Committee released from jail after they were arrested for various crimes recently which include kidnapping, assault, and murder. This is not the first time residents disrupt all schooling and business activities in that area. The department is yet to comment.

OFM News