Arson closes troubled school

CLASSES at Somile High School have been suspended by teachers and the School Governing Body (SGB), after a library was torched by unknown people on Tuesday.

The school was also in the spotlight last week, following the stabbing of Grade 11 learner Siphelele Malinga, who later died.

SGB Chairperson Mvumeleni Malinga said it was impossible to resume classes as all learning material plus stationery and a new desk were completely destroyed and the windows were vandalised.

‘I don’t see this school recovering from this disaster. As the SGB we are concerned about the safety of our teachers as we do not have any security guards.

‘We are not sure whether the burning of the library is related to the stabbing incident.

‘We have called a meeting with our circuit inspectors and parents to seek a way forward.

‘From where we are, shutting down the school was the best solution, given the circumstances,’ he said.

Malinga explained that the suspect, accused of killing the Grade 11 learner, had not been attending school since the June school holidays.

A teacher, who asked not to be named said many of the learners were illdisciplined.

‘They bring dangerous weapons such as spears, knives and bush knives, so it is hard for us as teachers to discipline them as we fear for our lives.

‘We only teach those who are willing to learn; we are working in a very dangerous school,’ he said.

The Department of Education spokesperson, Muzi Mahlambi said all their schools are located within the communities, so each and every community should take ownership and protect school facilities.

‘The MEC Mthandeni Dlungwane has taken a decision not to prioritise vandalised schools, because we don’t have enough budget.

‘As the department, we urge parents, traditional leaders such as Izinduna and church leaders to intervene and stop learners from carrying dangerous weapons and damaging school property,’ said Mahlambi.

The Zululand Cluster Police spokesperson, Captain Nkosie Gwala said they have opened a case of arson.