Learners at La Rochelle Primary School in Joburg south are facing a severe sanitation crisis, with non-functional toilets and inadequate temporary facilities forcing them to rely on chemical pit toilets.

Despite previous commitments from the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) to address the issue, the problem persists, with learners enduring inhumane conditions for months.

The situation has prompted a call for urgent investigation, with the matter set to be reported to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).

Member of the Provincial Legislature Sergio Dos Santos spoke about the urgent need for action.

“Learners and teachers are suffering without proper toilets at La Rochelle Primary. The GDE need to take responsibility as they did confirm that they would help,” said Dos Santos.

The GDE has been criticised for failing to prioritise infrastructure maintenance and ensure basic facilities are operational, disrupting learning and teaching.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona outlined that the GDE has been in contact with the school.

“We did make provisions in terms of septic tanks and mobile toilets until a toilet block structure can be built at the school. I would need to follow up on the progress of that. Rest assured that we will be helping the school with toilets soon,” said Mabona.

ALSO READ: Parents take stand over broken toilets at La Rochelle Primary School