Chiloane says department working to fix schools following Umthambeka incident

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Cape Town β€” Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, has denied the claims that the department is misusing funds and failing to sort out decaying infrastructures at schools in the province.

This follows a tragic incident that happened at the Umthambeka Primary School in Tembisa where 18 learners were injured after a ceiling in one of the classrooms collapsed on them. The learners, who are all in grade 6, were in the classroom at the time of the incident, the department said.

According to department spokesperson, Steve Mabona, two learners are being treated for their injuries, while the others have been discharged. Chiloane visited the school on Wednesday to find out the cause of the incident and to conduct counselling, if necessary.

“We are indeed concerned by the occurrence of this incident and find it unfortunate that our children were injured in such a manner at school. We would like to wish all the affected learners a speedy recovery” Chiloane said.

He also called on members of the school governing bodies (SGB) to remain vigilant and report all challenges to the dpeartment.

As reported by EWN, Chiloane said the department is investigating the incident, saying they have identified schools that are in need of major refurbishments and upgrades to their infrastructure.

“There are a number of schools that we’ve also earmarked for major refurbishments, and these are some of schools, like for instance, Umthambeka, is also earmarked for major refurbishments because the infrastructure is quite old.”

Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) Naledi Chirwa-Mpungose said the department mishandled funds intended to address infrastructure challenges in township schools.

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen

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