A recent oversight inspection by the Democratic Alliance (DA) of Maxeke Secondary School, Lindisa Primary School and Motsewapele Primary School in Emfuleni has exposed a shocking picture of systematic neglect, failing infrastructure and deteriorating safety conditions that place learners and educators at risk. These are serious failures that deny every learner’s right to a safe and conducive learning environment.
At Maxeke Secondary School, daily power outages caused by a shared community transformer, water shortages by midday, repeated burglaries and the complete absence of security have created an unsafe environment. Criminal elements loiter outside the school, whilst burglaries are a constant threat, as there are no security guards at the school. Teaching and learning are further compromised by a shortage of 800 desks and chairs, poorly equipped science labs, daily electricity outages and inadequate ablution facilities for over 1 600 learners.
At Lindisa Primary School, learners are taught in classrooms with falling ceilings and incomplete infrastructure, dating back to 2017. There have been promises of generators and upgrades, which have not materialised to date, despite job cards allegedly being issued. The withdrawal of private security and its replacement with patrollers has coincided with increased crime, bullying and substance abuse. The school continues to struggle with water pressure and experiences daily outages.
Motsewapele Primary School has been without electricity for three years and has seen declining enrolment. The school has experienced theft of essential equipment and unexpected costs exceeding R60 000 for water, further straining its ability to operate effectively.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) transferred Section 21(1)(d) functions to the school, which is now responsible for paying utility bills when the school is a no-fee quintile school, and the allocations do not cover the school’s monthly bill.
While Premier Panyaza Lesufi and GDE MEC Matome Chiloane speak regularly about their commitment to quality education, the lived reality in Emfuleni tells a different story.
A DA-led Gauteng Provincial Government would prioritise safe schools, fast-track infrastructure repairs, engage with local municipalities to ensure reliable electricity and water, and ensure proper oversight of all expenditure. Our children deserve schools that are safe, functional and dignified.