NSC exams proceed despite classrooms being set alight at KZN school

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka has condemned the burning of several classrooms and offices at Mpolweni Secondary School in the uMgungundlovu District in KwaZulu-Natal. 

The incident took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning. 

Hlomuka condemned the arson and vandalism, describing it as a “criminal and cowardly attack” on the future of learners.

He said that such behaviour would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

“Despite the damage, the school hall was not affected, and matric learners will continue writing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations as scheduled,” he said.

Hlomuka said no criminal act would derail the province’s commitment to ensuring examinations proceed without disruption.

“This is a disgraceful and deliberate attack on the education of our children. For anyone to burn and vandalise a school - especially during the NSC examinations - shows a shocking level of criminality and disregard for our learners’ future,” he said.

“This is an act of sabotage that robs learners of the limited resources available to them and drains the department’s already stretched budget. We will not allow thugs to hold our education system hostage.”

He confirmed law enforcement agencies had been assigned to prioritise the investigation, and said perpetrators would face harsh consequences, including criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.

Hlomuka said the department would be intensifying security measures at schools and increasing collaboration with SAPS and Community Policing Forums (CPFs) to ensure schools are protected from criminal elements.

He also called on parents, community leaders, traditional leadership and residents to take a firm stand against those who destroy schools and to expose individuals involved in criminal activities targeting education infrastructure.

“Communities must stop shielding criminals. If you know who did this and keep quiet, you are equally responsible for destroying the future of our children,” Hlomuka said.

Educational specialist Hendrick Makaneta told IOL News he was concerned about the incident.

“We are deeply saddened and disturbed by the arson and vandalism at Mpolweni Secondary School. Attacks on schools are attacks on learners’ futures, and it is unacceptable that safe spaces for education have been compromised,” he said.

Makaneta added that while examinations are continuing as scheduled, such events can cause stress and anxiety for learners.

“This may even affect their focus and performance, so it is crucial that schools provide counselling and a safe environment to help learners remain resilient during this critical period. The intervention by MEC Hlomuka is noted,” he said.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL News