EMALAHLENI – Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane has made a passionate plea to teachers and the community to prioritize the safety and protection of young girls in schools as a crucial step towards addressing the alarming increase in cases of rape involving schoolgirls.
The Premier’s call to action came during the official handover ceremony of Mogalithwa Primary School in Klarinet on Thursday, April 25. This event marked a significant milestone for the learners who had previously been conducting their studies outdoors, under trees.
The newly constructed school, with a capacity to accommodate over 2000 students, was completed at a cost of R48 million with the assistance of Seriti. It aims to provide a conducive learning environment for the 1200 current learners. The establishment of the school was spearheaded by uNdabezitha Mabena and began with only 250 learners in two classrooms. The school now boasts 23 classrooms, a Maths laboratory, a kitchen, a sick room, with running water, and clean toilets, among other facilities.
The handover ceremony was attended by the Mpumalanga department of Education MEC Bonakele Majuba, Khoi-San traditional leaders, Department of Correctional Service and community members.
“As the government of the ANC, we condemn the continuous rape of young girls in schools. Our young girls are being exposed to situations that they are not supposed to find themselves in.”
“This is killing our innocent young girls and their wombs. Their wombs are too tiny and very innocent, by the time the child is ready to be matured enough and ready to be a mother they will be damaged already.”
“We hope that the school principal as you’re also imbokodo, you will play a role in ensuring that our girls in school they’re safe. This is a serious concern and it is stressing us. We see it and it also lead residents to take the matters into their own hands, because they are trying to protect their children.” Premier stated.
“Every parent, whenever their child is going to school they’re expecting to the child going to study not to be made a wife.” She added.
Emalahleni Local Municipality mayor, Cllr Leah Mabuza said,” We are excited about the milestone with a number of reasons. The school restored dignity of a Black African child, who for the longest have been receiving education under the tree.”
