EFF STATEMENT ON THE RE-OPENING OF SCHOOLS.
Wednesday, 11 January 2023.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Limpopo, extends its well wishes to the
class of 2023 as thousands of learners from different parts of Limpopo are set
to start their academic year today, 11 January 2023, with many Grade 1s
beginning their 12 years of schooling.
Contrary to a smooth start, the EFF notes with concern that this morning
learners could be denied access to Malamulele Secondary School, in the Collins
Chabane Sub-Region if they fail to pay a stationary fee of R550.00, reportedly
demanded by the school. The EFF strongly condemns the violation of children’s
right to dignity, equality and basic education at the above-mentioned school.
We view this as extremely undemocratic and a direct provocation and an insult
to the poor, therefore Members of Provincial Legislatures, Councillors, Branch
Command Team, Regional Command Team, Provincial Command Team and
Central Command Team Members will respond and act accordingly to ensure
that no child must be denied education for any reason.
The leadership will monitor various schools state of readiness and in some
instances where there are service delivery issues, a decisive intervention will be
made. Infrastructure remains a thorny issue in Limpopo schools and as a result,
creates unconducive teaching and learning environment. It is worth noting that
the lack of adequate classrooms also causes overcrowding, and overcrowded
classes often overheat in the hot climate of Limpopo.
It is for this reason that we urge the Limpopo Department of Education to
provide mobile classrooms as a temporary measure and ensure that all the pit
toilets are eradicated in order to restore the dignity of learners. The right to
quality basic education must be promoted and protected by all means.
We call on the department to ensure that there is enough capacity in schools to
accommodate all the learners seeking admission and fast track the placement
of those who are on the waiting list.
