Communities responding positively to bring normality in Vuwani and surrounding areas
On Wednesday 18th May 2016, the Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC) on led by Minister Des van Rooyen, conducted visits to various schools in Vuwani and surrounding areas to see first-hand the learners going back to school. While teaching and learning had started in some areas, the same was not to the case in other areas.
This successful interactions saw government engaging with parents, school governing bodies (SGBs), educators, learners and other stakeholders. In this interactions with stakeholders, government emphasised the importance of partnerships with communities.
In addition, as part of its programme of today the IMC proceeded to a community meeting with the Nesengani Traditional Council and community members. The attendance and the mood at this meeting clearly showed that communities want to see their children back in school.
Various stakeholders had an opportunity to address key issues with the IMC, ranging from re-opening of schools, dealing with intimidation and with community needs. Minister van Rooyen sounded a clarion call to communities and stakeholders to allow learners to go back to school. “South Africa will not be the country of our dreams if we burn it and if our children don’t get educated”, said Minister van Rooyen.
“The future of our children is important and we urge educators to come back to school”, said Peter Mukhwatheli - community leader. He was one of the speakers at the meeting between government and communities. Speakers representing the community emphasised the importance of education for their children and that is why they will always guard these infrastructure (schools) jealously.
This action by parents and learners clearly shows their commitment and appreciation of the having this important infrastructure within their community.
The delivery of the mobile classrooms is also continuing and on the 18th May 2016, additional 14 were delivered to the cheers and happiness of some community members. They welcomed the Mobile classrooms with a hope that their children will soon get back to class and catch-up on the lost time.
In terms of assisting to provide security, Minister Mahlobo indicated that police patrols will be increased and that investigations will still continue. In this regard, communities are urged to report any form of intimidation to the police, especially those who prevent educators and learners from going back to school.
The IMC has once again commended the positive response from the communities and all stakeholders who are assisting to ensure that teaching and learning resume.
Enquiries:
Legadima Leso
Cell: 082 378 9495
