Central SA
Talks underway to reopen Hennenman schools─── REFILWE BEKANE 12:30 Mon, 18 May 2026
The Free State department of education is commited to working with local stakeholders and community leaders to ensure six Hennenman schools are safely reopened.
Service delivery protests in Phomolong, Hennenman, caused a complete shutdown of schooling at four primary and two high schools. The disruptions have affected more than 6,000 learners. Education’s department spokesperson Howard Ndaba said the ongoing protests are unrelated to education but have brought learning to a standstill for several weeks.
Free State education MEC Dr.Mantlhake Julia Maboya condemned the disruptions. Using schools as leverage for community demands violates the safety and educational rights of children, she said.
“Service delivery protests should not come at the expense of schooling. Education is a fundamental right that must be protected.” Residents must use alternative methods to address local government grievances.
The department highlighted several consequences of the shutdown, including the loss of curriculum time, potential safety risks and vandalism, and the interruption of the national school nutrition programme for vulnerable learners.
Solar panel project
The community protests began after the residents alleged that outsiders were being employed at a local solar panel project instead of unemployed residents. In protest, community members barricaded roads, which stopped local businesses, transport, and schooling.
To resolve the matter, premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae visited the area on Friday (15/5). She received a memorandum from residents and subsequently met with the solar project managers.
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae visited Hennenman. Photo: Free State Provincial Government
They demanded that the project predominantly employ residents, except for specialised skills sourced elsewhere, to ensure the community benefits from development.
“We are not hostile to investors,” said Letsoha-Mathae. “In fact, investment is highly valued in this province. However, all investment and development projects must ultimately benefit our residents, who are the true custodians of this province.”
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Tuesday (19/5) in Phomolong. The meeting will include community leaders, the construction company, and provincial leadership led by acting premier Jabu Mbalula.
The meeting is aimed at securing a lasting resolution so that local investments benefit residents and normal community activities, including schooling, can safely resume.
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