The North West Department of Education has confirmed that 60 schools across the province have sustained damage following strong and destructive winds that swept through parts of the province between 4 and 5 September.
The damage includes roofs, mobile classrooms and other school infrastructure, with the department continuing to assess the extent of the destruction. The storm damage comes as the department is already dealing with the impact of recent school fires, placing additional pressure on its infrastructure programme and efforts to provide safe and conducive learning environments.
The department has indicated that measures are being put in place to ensure teaching and learning continues at all affected schools while repair work is expedited. It is working towards having the affected schools repaired by the beginning of the fourth term, depending on the extent and nature of the damage at each school.
Where classrooms or mobile classrooms have been completely destroyed and cannot be used, learners will temporarily be accommodated at nearby schools.
Schools that remain operational but have limited classroom space may implement platooning arrangements, allowing learners to attend classes in different shifts. Under this arrangement, one group could attend classes in the morning, while another uses the same classrooms in the afternoon.
The department has also prioritised Grade 12 learners to ensure that their preparation for the National Senior Certificate examinations is not disrupted.
Education MEC Dr Desbo Mohono has expressed concern over the extent of the damage, particularly given the department’s existing challenges following recent school fires. Mohono has emphasised the need for practical interventions to prevent learners from losing valuable teaching and learning time.
The department is working with infrastructure and disaster management teams to assess the damage, identify urgent interventions and accelerate repairs. It will continue monitoring affected schools and provide updates as further assessments are completed.
The department has reiterated its commitment to restoring safe and functional learning environments and ensuring that learners are not left behind as a result of the storm damage.
