‘Fighters’ want school year to start smoothly

In a 15 January statement issued by national spokesman for EFF, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi said the first day of the school year for 2014 pleaded with young people to stay in school. EFF wants their supporters to visit schools in their communities regularly to ensure proper protocol is followed, that there is adequate text books and study material is at hand.”

“As young people across the country start school today for the new academic year, Economic Freedom Fighters extends best wishes. This is particularly directed at grade ones who will start on an expected 12 years journey in the country’s twentieth year of democracy with the hope for better and improved education,” Ndlozi’s statement read.

EFF called on school pupils, particularly from impoverished areas, to persevere and not be tempted to drop out of school. They believe education is one of the only tools to help eradicate poverty.

Last week, DA shadow minister for basic education Annette Lovemore released their research which showed over 40 percent of pupils between Grade 10 and 12 leave school, a worrying trend.

EFF called on South Africa’s rulers in their ivory towers to ensure the next batch of pupils that will matriculate in 2026 to provide proper study material and equipment to ensure their success.

“Above all, government must ensure no one is excluded from school because they cannot pay fees or because they do not have school uniform,” they said.

They said their ‘Fighters’ in all wards had to visit schools and ensure that lessons were underway, registration is properly managed, and no students excluded due to school fees or lack of uniforms.

“Fighters must further inspire and encourage all those who might be tempted not to return to school to find heart and go back to school.”