This is according to the North West Department of Education. Departmental spokesperson, Elias Malindi, tells OFM News they are devastated by this news and ‘the cause for the torching of school property is not yet established’. 

He confirms the torching of school property includes administrative offices as well as classrooms. Malindi says a police case has been opened for investigations and the cost of damages is being evaluated.

The torching of the four schools comes just weeks before learners are due to sit for their final exams.

Malindi also confirms this further poses a challenge to the schooling system as the department now has to make new arrangements for learners to ensure learning and teaching continues whilst keeping in mind Covid-19 protocols of physical distancing and other safety measures.

Meanwhile, the North West Education MEC Mmaphefo Matsemela has condemned the incident stating that it is a setback for learners and the schooling system at large.

The schools were burned on Thursday night and no arrests have been made.

Matsemela appeals to community members who might have information regarding the incident to contact the police.

“This barbaric act of burning schools should come to an end. We cannot over-emphasise how grave a setback this is to an already compromised academic year,” said Matsemela.

OFM News