Limpopo Department of is still awaiting a final report on the incident of fire that occurred at Mohlatlego Machaba Secondary, Mopani West Education District in the early hours of Saturday Morning on 20 July 2024, which reduced the admin block and other educational material to ashes. The Department deployed a team to ensure that learning and teaching takes place at one of the high enrolled schools with 51 teachers. Infrastructure Assessment was also conducted to expedite urgent intervention.

However, the cause of the fire remains unknown, and the Department has full confidence in the law enforcement agencies to establish the cause of the fire. The Department has also launched internal investigations into the matter, working together with the affected community.

A dedicated team that deals with the day-to-day safety of learners and teachers at schools is on the ground assisting. The team will work closely with law enforcement agencies and community members to establish ways to curb these incidents of this nature. Furthermore, the Department will arrange (Occupational Health and Safety) OHS, security risk, training on fire management and conduct threat assessment in all the schools in the Province.

“The safety and well-being of our learners and staff is our top priority. We are working closely with local authorities, including the fire department and emergency services, to investigate the cause of the fire and ensure that all necessary measures are taken into consideration to prevent such incidents in the future”, said MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya.

She further said, “We understand the impact this had on our school community, and we are committed to supporting our learners, staff and parents during this challenging time.”

The Department appreciates the support and understanding of the community as it works to rebuild and recover from this tragic event. Regular updates on the progress of the building efforts, replacement of the school equipment and the resumption of admin block will be provided.

For Media enquiries

Mr Matome Taueatsoala MEC’s Media Liaison Officer (MLO)

Ms Mosebjane Kgaffe Departmental Spokesperson (Acting)

Issued by the Limpopo Department of Education