North West schools battered by destructive winds as damage mounts
The North West Department of Education said roofs were damaged and mobile classrooms destroyed at schools across four districts.
More than 20 schools in the North West region have suffered damage from powerful winds, exacerbating the challenges faced by an education department already grappling with the aftermath of recent fires. The North West Department of Education reported roofs being destroyed and mobile classrooms being destroyed at schools scattered across four districts between September 4 and 5.
The latest destruction has compelled the department to intensify its emergency response efforts, as it strives to restore normalcy to the affected schools. Some of the hardest-hit schools include Pudulogo Primary in Ikageng, Maitemogelo Secondary in Wolmaranstad, and Tshedimosetso Secondary in Jouberton within the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.
In the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, Thuto ke Matla Secondary in Groot Marico and Setilo Secondary in Mareetsane Village also suffered damage. The Bojanala District reported issues at SG Ntuane Primary in Tlhatlhaganyane Village and Rantlaka Primary in Phalane Village, among others. The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District noted damage at Kokomeng Primary, Walter Letsie Secondary, Raditshipi Primary, Thapama Secondary, Choseng Secondary, and Reabetswe Secondary.
Education Minister Dr Desbo Mohono expressed deep concern over the extent of the damage, stating that the department's priority is now to assess the damage, ensure the safety of students and staff, and minimize disruptions to education. The department plans to dispatch teams to the affected schools to evaluate the extent of the destruction and devise strategies to keep educational activities running.
The department warned that the number of impacted schools may increase as principals discover additional damage upon returning to work on Monday. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing aftermath of fires at three schools within the same region, forcing the department to manage multiple crises simultaneously. "We understand the impact this situation has on our school communities, and we will continue doing everything within our means to support the affected schools," Mohono stated.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
