Ex-Umkhonto we Sizwe soldiers are awaiting deployment to Vuwani for assistance with construction of mobile classrooms, providing protection to attending learners, round-the-clock guarding of schools and maintaining a presence in so-called no-go areas.
Lulamile Jack, acting Provincial Secretary of Umkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans Association (MKMVA), said they were ready to deploy as many of their members to Vuwani following a directive after Tuesday’s inter-ministerial committee meeting in Polokwane. He could not predict how long their presence would be required in the area. He was of the opinion that they would be working alongside government and civil society structures operational in the area.
He indicated that they would assist with the construction of mobile classrooms at damaged schools in remote areas to ensure classes were up and running for kids not to miss out on schooling. They would also guard children on their way to school and protect schools, prevent intimidation in no-go areas and engage communities on leaving their issues aside and ensuring children attend school as well as the importance of education. Key at the moment was the education of children which they fought for, Jack stressed.
From information shared at an event in Vuwani on Tuesday they gathered that 47% of learners in the area were back at school, he said. In conclusion Jack called on civil society, and especially professionals with skills in education, to urgently volunteer their services for the benefit of the children of Vuwani.
Story: YOLANDE NEL
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