CLASSES resumed at Qantayi High School in Port Durnford on Monday, a month after the tragic classroom shoot-out which resulted in the death of two pupils.
However, despite watertight security, including the appointment of security guards, regulated entrance, a ban on cellphones and random security searches – only five teachers have returned to the school.
Terrified teachers refused to go back to classes last week.
They feared for their lives after a Grade 12 pupil shot his classmate and turned the gun on himself last month.
Last week, uThungulu Department of Education Director David Chonco said teachers who did not return to Qantayi will be placed in other schools.
‘Teachers have been appointed to start teaching at the school. We hope education will continue without any disturbance now,’ he said.
Umbutho VIP Protection Services has deployed two guards at the school to deal with any threats or disturbances.
‘I went to this school and it breaks my heart to know that children haven’t had education for a month. I decided to send my guards to protect the school for free until the department comes up with a more permanent solution,’ said security company owner Bheki Gumede.
By Wednesday afternoon peace seemed to have been restored and learning was reportedly back to normal.
‘There is only one entrance now, which allows for better monitoring of people entering or leaving the school.
‘Matric pupils are already writing their trial examinations and others grades are being assisted by University of Zululand students. We are now waiting for the educators appointed by the government to report for duty,’ said School Governing Body (SGB) Deputy Chairperson Zakhele Dlamini.
