By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said they strongly condemn the recent theft of the school roof that spread across three classrooms at Mmanjaakgora Primary School in Prisca village, near Moretele. Motsumi said the incident was discovered on 6 July 2024.
She further said this has caused significant disruption to the educational environment and the community at large. Motsumi added that in response to this unfortunate event, the department has swiftly arranged a library as a temporary measure for multi-grade Grades 1, 2 and 3 learners to ensure that they continue their education without interruption, especially during the harsh winter season.
“We urge parents to remain calm as we work diligently to resolve the situation and implement the best possible solutions. We express deep concern and disappointment regarding this incident. We can confirm that the roof of the structure that accommodates three classrooms, Grade R, 1, 2 and 3, has been stolen.
“I wish to state that the theft of the school roof is not only a criminal act, but a direct attack on the future of our children. It is disheartening to see such behaviour, especially as we prepare for the reopening of schools for the third term in the thick of winter,” said Motsumi.
She said that this act not only disrupts the education of the learners, but also undermines the rights of children, human dignity and the progress they have made in improving the performance of the schools. Motsumi said incidents like these hinder the strides they are making.
“We are committed to ensuring that our learners receive the education they deserve. We will not allow such acts to derail our efforts. However, in the meantime, we have arranged a library to accommodate three grades and a mini library for Grade R.
“The department is working closely with law enforcement to ensure that those responsible for this crime are brought to justice. We appeal to the community to assist in safeguarding our schools and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities,” she said.
The Guardian 