Learners at this school have been without electricity for months with those in its hostel worst affected. The school has not been able to open its doors to all its pupils since the declaration of the national lockdown due to its outstanding Eskom bill of more than R147 000. 

OFM News previously reported on how this school with 74 hostel learners from impoverished communities, plagued by high unemployment rates and other socio-economic issues, has been unable to settle its debt with Eskom, resulting in electricity being cut at the school.

Learners at the school had to find alternative accommodation, with many of the Grade 12s housed by community members.

According to documents in possession of OFM News, the school’s hostel owed the power utility R149 974 at the end of September 2020. Attempts to enter into a payment agreement were allegedly rejected by the power supplier.

Following OFM News’ enquiry to the Northern Cape Department of Education, the department confirmed it is aware of the unfortunate situation and that the district office would be engaging with the school to address the financial situation. Departmental spokesperson, Geoffrey van der Merwe, said they will investigate why this school was shrouded in darkness and attend to its issues.  

Following an almost three-month battle, the school finally has electricity.

It is not known how the school’s hostel racked up the R147 974 debt whilst it has not been operational since the declaration of the Covid-19 lockdown.

OFM News