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The IFP has called for an urgent solution to the crisis that has affected
the education sector in the Northern Cape, with 41 schools remaining closed
after the July break because of community protests.

"It is shocking to hear that, since June this year, 41 schools in Kuruman in
the Johan Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality have been closed. This will
have a major negative impact on the future of those learners who are
depending on these schools, "said Mr Alfred Mpontshane, IFP Spokesperson for
Education in Parliament.

Mpontshane further stated that, "Now, when it is time for learners to
prepare themselves for third term examinations, these children, especially
the matriculants, have no schools to attend. The Department of Basic
Education, as well as the Provincial Department of Education, must work
closely to urgently solve this crisis. These Departments must form a task
team to monitor the situation and to make sure that the recovery plans for
learners are not disrupted."

He added that, "No matter how many camps or catch-up plans the Department of
Education have, children whose schooling is continually disrupted cannot
possibly be expected to achieve their potential."

The IFP calls on the community of Kuruman in the Northern Cape to think
about the future of their children first, because their grievances are not
about schools. They should be addressing them to the relevant departments.
In addition the IFP calls for the police to ensure that those who disrupt
the schooling of learners are prosecuted immediately.

"It is scandalous that three months down the line, the Departments of
Education and Police have still not been able to stabilize the situation.
Our children deserve better," said Mpontshane