By Doreen Mokgolo
Parents in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg, are worried about the safety of their children at schools in the area and have asked the Gauteng MEC for Education, Sports, Arts and Culture, Matome Chiloane, to improve security.
Their plea comes after a fire at Lancea Vale Secondary School on Tuesday destroyed three classrooms.
The blaze started in a room where Grade 8 and 9 students had classes.
Firefighters are investigating the cause of the fire.
The school has also been dealing with gang problems. Just last week, a learner was stabbed by another at the school.
Parent Debbie Abrahams said: “It’s sad that gangs from the community have found their way into our schools. Our children are divided because of these gangs.
“We need the education department and police to work together to get rid of gang activity in our schools. Those responsible should be removed to keep everyone safe.”
Another parent, Marie Peterson, is asking for community safety wardens to be sent to secondary schools in the area.
She mentioned a recent incident at Willow Crescent Secondary School, where two students were hurt after two armed men entered the school and started shooting.
Another student was stabbed and needed medical attention.
“This community is becoming dangerous, and we’re worried about our children’s safety,” she said.
Chiloane confirmed that the police are investigating the recent events.
“We won’t tolerate violence or gang activity in our schools. We are keeping a close watch on the situation and are confident that classes will continue as usual,” he said.
The police confirmed that two learners had been arrested on charges of arson and will appear in the Lenasia Magistrates’ Court soon.
Pictured above: The fire-damaged Lancea Vale Secondary School.
Source: Supplied
