The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has pledged swift support for storm-ravaged schools in KwaZulu-Natal, where 134 institutions across six districts have reported storm-related damage.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, speaking during a media briefing in the Eastern Cape, confirmed that while no fatalities have been reported among learners or staff, the storms have significantly disrupted education in the province.
One incident at a school in the Ugu District saw a roof collapse, injuring four pupils.
"While there have been no fatalities that have been reported — at least from a school level — there has been significant damage that has been caused in many schools," Gwarube said.
She emphasized that the DBE is working closely with provincial education authorities to ensure that the academic calendar remains intact.
“The Department of Basic Education is supporting the province to make sure that there are no losses that are made in terms of learning and teaching,” she added.
Efforts are now underway to assess the full extent of the damage and to implement contingency plans, including temporary infrastructure and learning support for the affected schools.