MBOMBELA – With the adverse weather conditions, some schools have had to suspend classes on the first academic day.
Some of the schools affected by heavy rains resulting in flooding include Keledi Secondary School (Casteel Circuit) and Masana Senior Secondary School in Bushbuckridge, among others. The Mpumalanga Department of Education has observed that some villages in the Ehlanzeni and Bohlabela areas have experienced severe weather conditions.
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Spokesperson, Gerald Sambo says the safety of learners and staff is a priority. All necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with the unpleasant weather must be taken. “Principals have to report to District Directors through Circuit Managers about their situation and precautionary measures taken. Schools not affected may continue with schooling, but necessary precautions should be taken into consideration should weather conditions change,” said Sambo.
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The department has advised all schools to take the following necessary precautions to ensure the safety of students, staff, and facilities:
- Class Suspension
Consider suspending classes or adjusting school hours where there is severe weather condition to avoid exposing students to hazardous weather conditions. - Learner Safety
Ensure that learners are sent home or to designated safe areas if it is risky to attend classes. - Facility Preparation
Secure outdoor furniture, equipment, and other loose items that could become projectiles in strong winds. - Emergency Response Plan
Activate your school’s emergency response plan and ensure that all staff and learners are aware of the procedures. - Communication
Keep parents and guardians informed about any changes to school schedules or safety measures.
Additional recommendations include monitoring local weather forecasts from the South African Weather Services (SAWS). Keep emergency contact numbers handy and being prepared for potential power outages and have backup plans in place.
