The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng demands an immediate investigation and swift repairs by the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) after Riverlea Secondary School was severely damaged by a fire, suspected to be vandalism. Those responsible for this senseless act must be held accountable. The destruction of school property undermines the delivery of quality education.
11 classrooms were completely gutted, disrupting learning and teaching and causing an unnecessary burden on the already scarce infrastructure resources in our education system.
In another incident, Lancea Vale Secondary School in Eldorado Park was also damaged by fire last year August. Despite promises by the GDE that rubble would be cleared and classrooms repaired, no work has commenced. The school remains abandoned, highlighting the department’s ongoing inability to deliver on its commitments and protect the future of our learners.
The DA Gauteng will submit written questions to the Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature ( GPL) to ascertain the number of fires in Gauteng schools in the last five years. We also want to know whether schools are compliant with fire and safety regulations.
A DA-led Gauteng provincial government would establish a rapid school infrastructure recovery plan with strict repair timelines, regular public updates, and accountability for delays. In cases of structural damage, qualified structural engineers would assess any damage to ensure the safety of learners and staff.
The DA will continue to pressure the GDE to ensure that Riverlea High School and Lancea Vale Secondary School are not forgotten and that our children’s right to a safe, dignified education is protected.