#MediaAlert: THE NEWS EDITORS AND JOURNALISTS 

FROM THE MPUMALANGA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

21 JANUARY 2025 

LEARNING AND TEACHING TO RESUME AT SIBOSHWA PRIMARY SCHOOL 

Learning and teaching at Siboshwa Primary School will resume fully following a brief disruption caused by community protests over the need for a new school. 

For the past six days, learners were unable to attend classes due to concerns raised by some community members in the area. 

Subsequently , this morning, the MEC for Education, Ms. Cathy Dlamini and her team held a productive meeting with representatives from the School Governing Body, members of the local community, and the school management team to address the concerns raised. 

During the meeting, MEC Dlamini presented a comprehensive plan for the construction of a new school and outlined the department's efforts to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to provide a conducive environment for learning and teaching at the school.

The construction of the new school is scheduled to commence in the 2026/27 financial year following the required administrative processes.

MEC Dlamini emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and urged the communities  to explore all available channels for addressing concerns, rather than resorting to protest actions. 

She highlighted the negative impact that disruptions have on learners  academic progress, particularly in light of the increased challenges in preparing  for their final exams.

"We must work together to ensure that our learners have the opportunity to focus on their education and achieve their academic goals. 

The disruptions of classes not only affect the learner's  learning experience but also hinder their ability to cover the lost time."

The MEC called on the community to allow learners to fully participate in their education and urged all stakeholders to collaborate for the benefit of the learners’ success.

The Department is monitoring the situation very closely. 

Inquiries :

Jasper Zwane at 083 743 1804 
Gerald Sambo at 081 046 9922
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