The Limpopo Department of Education has temporarily suspended schooling in parts of the province after persistent heavy rainfall caused flooding and made several roads unsafe. The precaution mainly affects schools in the Vhembe and Mopani districts, which have been hardest hit by the recent rains.
According to the department, flooded roads have made it difficult for learners, educators and scholar transport to reach many schools. Schools in affected areas will remain closed for two days, Monday 16 March and Tuesday 17 March, while authorities assess safety risks.
Officials said the decision was taken to prevent potential danger to learners and staff during the ongoing severe weather. Reports have also been received of leaking roofs and water damage at some schools, while wet classroom conditions could pose additional safety risks.
The department has also raised concerns about burglaries at schools during the disruption. Criminals have reportedly targeted food supplies meant for the school nutrition programme, as well as electronic equipment.
District offices have informed school principals and circuit managers about the temporary suspension. They are responsible for notifying parents and school governing bodies in their respective areas. Parents seeking information about the status of their schools are advised to contact school principals or their local circuit offices.
Parents have also been warned not to allow learners to attempt crossing flooded rivers or bridges to reach school. “As the Limpopo Department of Education, we have taken a precautionary decision to suspend schooling for forty-eight hours in the affected districts to safeguard the lives of learners and educators,” said department spokesperson Mike Maringa.
He urged parents not to force learners to attend school during this period. “We are calling on parents not to force learners to go to school to sit for tests or examinations during this period. Learners will be given an opportunity to write at a later stage once conditions have improved,” Maringa said.
The department said it would continue monitoring the weather together with municipalities and disaster management teams and would provide further updates as conditions change.