Classrooms overflow as parents demand places
Despite the Department of Education stating that more than 98 per cent of learners were admitted to schools following a process that started in May 2018, some parents and their kids were left without school placement in the province.
As schools reopened yesterday, Mpumalanga News was contacted by concerned parents in Mataffin after their
children were turned away at John Mdluli Primary School.
Teaching was disrupted by angry parents who refused to leave the school premises after being informed that there was no space available.
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Speaking to Nayiz Khoza, she mentioned that she had applied for her child on time with the required documents.
“I was told my son was admitted to the school and I proceeded to buy the uniform and stationery, but here we are waiting outside today.
“He was excited to start grade one and now he seems confused. He is even crying because he does not know what is going on.” Another parent, Balunkile Monamudi, shared the same sentiments, stating that they were not informed
of any waiting lists.
“When we arrived this morning we were surprised to hear that our children were put on
a waiting list. We were told to come back on Friday, but I am not going anywhere until my child is placed in a classroom. I fought for this school and now my child cannot get an education? It is really not fair,” said Monamudi.
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The school has three grade one classes and according to some staff members, there is a shortage of educators and furniture. On Tuesday, the department said school furniture worth R10 million was delivered to schools by October 30 last year. However, a staff member revealed that most classrooms have a shortage of chairs and tables.
“To date, 166-grade ones have been enrolled. We plead with the department to intervene because there is a crisis here. We cannot ignore the fact that parents are stranded and the young ones are eager to start school, but it is beyond our control.” The department did admit that a few challenges may be experienced in Mbombela, eMalahleni, Steve Tshwete, Ermelo and Secunda, but principals and circuit managers are working around the clock to place learners on waiting lists.
