Parents of learners at Danville Secondary School near Mahikeng are raising alarm over the school’s crumbling infrastructure, claiming that the environment is unsafe and unsuitable for learning.
Concerned parents report that ceilings are collapsing, windows and doors are broken, and ablution facilities are in an unhygienic state, particularly posing health risks for female learners. One anonymous parent expressed frustration, stating, “The environment of the school is not in a good condition—starting from the ceiling, the windows, and the yard. The toilets are not good for girls; infections are a concern because they have to sit down.”
Another parent alleged neglect from education authorities, saying, “It’s like Danville is a forgotten place. We don’t usually hear about anyone coming to inspect. Our councillor doesn’t seem to be doing anything.”
Former learners have also voiced concerns. Kyle Morris, who completed Grade 12 last year, recalled, “Some of the ceilings were falling on learners, even in my class. Windows were broken, and in winter, children were freezing because some classrooms didn’t even have doors.”
Department Responds
The North West Department of Education, however, denies receiving any reports of injuries related to infrastructure failures. Spokesperson Mphata Molokwane stated, “We have never received any incident report of a learner injured by a ceiling collapse at Danville Secondary.”
The department also suggested that the school’s governing body (SGB) may not be properly utilizing allocated maintenance funds. “In most cases, the money is not being used for its intended purpose. Some schools spend it on travel instead of maintenance,” Molokwane said.
Despite these claims, the department has pledged to renovate Danville Secondary and strengthen its school inspection program.
For now, parents and learners remain anxious, hoping for urgent intervention to restore a safe and conducive learning environment.
