Storm damage: R124m to schools

THE STORM, which wreaked havoc in Cape Town a week ago, damaged approximately 170 schools.

The extent of the damage varies from damaged roofs and fences, to structural damages.

The estimated cost and repairs of the schools are around R124 million, but the figure is not final as some schools are still being assessed. “Our priority was to make schools operational as soon as possible, where possible. Officials that visited schools immediately took action in ensuring that where possible, school sites were made safe for use, so that learning and teaching can continue with limited interference,” Western Cape MEC for Education Debbie Schäfer said.

Schäfer also said a number of corporate donors had shown they were willing to offer assistance.

At Sunnyside Primary School, the Western Cape Department of Education delivered four mobile classrooms.

However, they have not been assembled yet. School Governing Body chairperson Naikier Karriem said the department delivered the mobile classrooms, but they were in unassembled form. “And currently our children are busy with examinations.”

Karriem said the main concern was there were no toilets for teachers. “This is the second week now and they don’t care about us.” As a result of the storm, the 66-year-old building was in ruins, forcing 600 pupils to stay at home. The storm blew off the administration block’s roof and damaged the electricity supply to classrooms.

“A contractor is currently installing four mobile classrooms to serve as administration buildings and a mobile toilet unit for the staff. Electricians repaired the electricity supply last week. Loose roofing sheets have been secured,” WCED spokesperson Paddy Attwell said.

Damage to the school amounted to R1m. –

THE 66-YEAR-OLD BUILDING WAS IN RUINS, FORCING 600 PUPILS TO STAY AT HOME