UPDATE | Work in Progress at Van Coller Primary School

Background: Why the School Was Closed

Work is continuing at Van Coller Primary School in Komani as community members, parents and relevant stakeholders act to address serious infrastructure and health concerns that recently resulted in the temporary closure of the school.

As previously reported by Komani News, parents and guardians raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of the school premises.

Among the concerns highlighted were overgrown grass, broken windows, unsafe and non-functional toilets and insufficient security fencing around the school.

Parents argued that these conditions posed potential health and safety risks to learners and said they could not allow children to continue attending classes under such circumstances.

Following meetings and engagements involving the School Governing Body (SGB), community representatives and education officials, it was agreed that corrective work needed to be undertaken before learners could safely return.

Current Progress on the Ground

Visible progress is now being made at the school as efforts to restore safety and dignity continue.

Grass cutting is currently underway on the school grounds, improving overall hygiene and reducing potential health risks.

Broken windows are in the process of being replaced, while toilets are being repaired and secured to ensure they are safe, functional and fit for learner use.

In addition, fencing material is being sourced to improve security around the school premises. Cleaning materials are also being procured to allow for thorough sanitation of classrooms, ablution facilities and common areas once work is completed.

Community members involved in the process say the focus is on addressing the most urgent concerns first, while ensuring that improvements meet acceptable safety standards.

Learner Safety Remains the Priority

Those participating in the clean-up and repair efforts have consistently emphasised that learner safety and dignity remain non-negotiable.

It has been clearly stated that no children will be exposed to health hazards in the name of continuing education.

Parents and community representatives have stressed that while education is critical, it cannot come at the cost of learners’ health, safety or wellbeing.

Next Steps and Inspections

Once the current work has reached an acceptable standard, inspections are expected to take place to assess whether the school environment is safe for learners to return.

The reopening of the school will depend on the outcome of these inspections and confirmation that the identified issues have been adequately addressed.