Concerns are rising over the state of school infrastructure in the Free State following the closure of two schools after inspectors uncovered serious health and safety violations. The South African democratic teachers’ union (Sadtu) in the province said it is deeply concerned but not surprised by the suspension of classes at Matla Primary School.

The school was declared unsafe after labour inspectors found several areas that did not comply with occupational health and safety requirements.

The DA has also expressed concern over the closures, saying the situation has dealt a major blow to learners who are now losing valuable teaching time.

“The situation has the potential to spread to many schools across the province,” said Sadtu provincial secretary Bricks Moloi. “Some of which were closed already at the beginning of the year.

“Sadtu has on numerous occasions in meetings with education senior officials raised the issue of infrastructure in many schools that is posing a health risk to the learners, teachers, and support staff.”

Educators will later be expected to catch up through extra classes for the time lost, not of their making, said the union.

Inspectors from the department of employment and labour visited the Matla Primary School on Thursday, 19 February, and subsequently served contravention and prohibition notices to the Free State department of education.

The labour department issued a prohibition notice at the school after uncovering several serious health and safety violations, including exposed electrical wiring, unhygienic sanitation facilities, and fire hazards. 

Officials said the closure will remain in place until inspectors confirm the environment is safe for both learners and educators.

Learners from St Benedict Primary School standing outside after the school was closed. Photo: supplied

The St Benedict Primary School in Ladybrand was closed on Friday (6/3) after numerous complaints about deteriorating infrastructure. Learners could be seen in pictures standing outside the school.

“This is a huge blow, particularly to the learners, who are now losing valuable teaching time,” said Free State DA member of the legislature Jafta Mokoena. 

“Incidents such as these are preventable through simple planning, maintenance, and political will.”

“The party has written to the MEC of education to prioritise the restoration of compliance at these schools and ensure that teaching resumes immediately.”

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame