Gang fights in Ilembe schools disrupt exams
Gang fights cause chaos at Ilembe schools during exams.
Final year-end exams in a number of rural Ilembe schools have been disrupted as a result of gang fights.
District director of the department of education Thembi Vilakazi appealed for assistance from the MEC of department of transport, community safety and liaison Willies Mchunu last Friday.
“We have schools in the district that I do not know whether they will be able to finish their exams because of the boys fighting,” said Vilakazi.
She was speaking at the business breakfast meeting with minister of police Nathi Nhleko at eBandla Hotel.
One of the schools that is affected is Mgandeni High School in the Senembe area of Mandeni.
Grade 10 pupil Khanyisile Ntanzi said only the grade 12 pupils are writing their exams, but not at their school. She said the fights start when there are traditional events where the men practice stick fighting.
“After fighting at the event, some boys hold a grudge and they continue with the fight at school. Some even come with dangerous weapons, like bush knifes,” said Ntanzi.
Mandeni municipality mayor Siphesihle Zulu visited the area on Saturday, where he preached the word of peace.
“This area has a history of violence and I came to say, enough with violence. Children must be given a chance to go to school,” said Zulu.
He urged residents to help to bring back peace and unity among the boys of Senembe.
