Matric pupils at Sekgoari Secondary School in Ga-Modjadji village, Bolobedu, have voiced concern that their academic year was disrupted after heavy flooding delayed the reopening of schools in parts of Limpopo.
Schools in flood-affected areas of Mopani, Vhembe and parts of the Sekhukhune districts were forced to remain closed due to persistent rains, which caused widespread flooding and damage to road infrastructure, leaving several schools inaccessible.
National government has since declared flood-hit areas in five provinces disaster zones.
Learners say catch-up programmes are expected to be implemented to help them recover lost teaching time.
Matric learner Tumelo Mashatole says while he is relieved to finally return to school, the delay has left them feeling behind.
“I’m glad we are opening today, but it feels like we’ve been left behind because others have been studying for some time while we were at home without books and not knowing what to study. Still, it’s better to open now than later so we can catch up,” he said.
Another pupil, Petunia Ramaano, echoed the concern.
“Some schools have already started their activities for the year, while those of us in flood-affected areas are behind with schoolwork,” she said.
Excitement as schools reopen in Giyani
Meanwhile, learners in Giyani have welcomed the reopening of schools following the disruption caused by the floods.
At Giyani High School, pupils Danisile Nkuna and Vunwe Mabunda say they are relieved and excited to be back in class.
Nkuna said: “I’m very excited that schools have reopened because we finally get the chance to continue with our studies like learners in other provinces.”
Mabunda added: “I’m glad the floods have stopped. I’m also excited because I get to see my friends again.”
Education authorities say efforts are underway to ensure that teaching and learning normalise as quickly as possible in the affected areas with little room for weather-induced excuses this time around.