MK Party takes matters into their own hands
MK Party members in Alexandra took matters into their own hands, repairing damaged school furniture themselves to improve classroom conditions and tackle bullying.
Instead of joining the chorus of complaints about crumbling school infrastructure, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party members chose to take action.
On February 5, they undertook to fix 250 desks at Alexandra High School for matric learners. Their aim was not only to improve infrastructure but also to address bullying.
Read more: uMkhonto we Sizwe Party steps in to fix broken desks at Alex High
Siziwe Zwane, the acting secretary general of MK Party in Alexandra Zone 13, said that the main concern at Alex High was bullying, which she linked directly to the lack of desks and chairs. Parents have long reported that learners often fight over chairs and desks in Alexandra high schools.
“This is why we took it upon ourselves to start there. Some chairs and tables were broken at Alex High, and we felt that since funds are coming slowly, we don’t get assistance, and the government is failing us in so many ways.”
The initiative could not have been more timely. On the same day it was launched, it was reported that the student body, Congress of South African Students (Cosas), disrupted learning at several high schools in Alexandra, including Alex High, over infrastructure challenges. Cosas said these challenges, compounded by overcrowding, affect learners’ outcomes.
Also read: Bridgestone champions road safety education in Alex high schools
Next to Alex High, there is an old facility that was reportedly abandoned and later donated to Alex High, according to Zwane. She said the facility can be a solution to the school’s overcrowding challenge. However, she explained that it cannot be used in its current state because it has some electrical issues. But she assured that once an electrician is brought in, the facility will be usable and likely serve matric learners.
Zwane added that they will also extend their reach to one of the primary schools in the community. “They need assistance with security because they are experiencing break-ins. The burglars use the roof to gain entry into the classrooms.”
She said that they were raising funds to purchase cameras to improve security at that school.
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