This, as the burning and vandalism of property - including schools and businesses - has spiked in the past weeks. The organisation, advocating for quality and equality in the South African education system, says it is extremely concerned about the number of schools that have been vandalised since the beginning of the lockdown. 

It is also concerned that this is driven by increasing hunger, isolation and anger by members of society. The organisation is further calling on government to expand and bolster social protection measures. 

While it is reported that Mpumalanga, Gauteng and the Western Cape have the highest number of schools that have been vandalised countrywide, OFM News has also reported that at least 39 schools in the Northern Cape has suffered damages due to criminal acts since the national lockdown. 

The Free State has also reported that about 16 schools have been affected by burglaries and vandalism during the 21-day national lockdown.

The provincial spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, confirmed his department will only be in a position to estimate the damage caused to these schools after the lockdown. 

He said these are costs that were not budgeted for and put an extra burden on the department’s budget. It is reported that approximately 397 schools throughout the country have been vandalised.

Equal Education has meanwhile called for investigations into these cases and appealed to members of communities to work support the efforts of provincial education departments.

OFM News