THUNDERSTORM: E-learning equipment damaged at Sunward Park High

So strong was the wind that the metal sheets that ripped loose from the building next to the soccer fields, were flung over a three storey and two storey block, respectively, to eventually land in Sonskyn Road that runs in front of the school.

Metal sheets also landed in some of the residents’ yards in this particular road.

The thunderstorm struck around 3pm, while learners were busy writing exams and some staff members were still at the school.

According to the school principal, Ansie Peens, luckily no one was injured during this ordeal.

A number of classrooms in the C-block, on the south side of the school premises, were subsequently left with no roof and were flooded by water.

This resulted in some exam papers getting soaked and electrical equipment being damaged.

Sunward Park High School relies heavily upon such electrical equipment, such as projectors, as education is e-learning orientated.

Windows of certain classrooms, as well as solar panels in the middle block, were also shattered by the metal sheets, and some parts of the roof also suffered damage.

Peens said electrical wires on the outside of the buildings came loose and were damaged.

“We are fortunate that our internet connection were not affected,” said Peens.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) as well as the school’s insurance company were contacted in connection with the storm damage.

“The GDE reacted swiftly in order to start with repairs and renovations as soon as possible. We did contact our insurance company but they were understandably inundated with calls,” said Peens.

“It is going to cost thousands to repair the classrooms and to replace the damaged equipment, of which some were still very new.

“We have had to change some of the exam venues, since we can’t stop the examinations,” said Peens.

Given Makue, a security guard at the school front gate, was on duty at the time the incident occurred.

“I was inside the security hut when the metal sheets came flying past” he said.

“I was scared and ran away. Metal sheets blocked the main entrance, while some were flung in the street.”

Peens said although they are happy to receive rain due to the drought, it was unfortunate to experience such damage to the school. – @IschkeBoksburg

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