Hoërskool Vryburger needs urgent financial rescue
"The parents of the school canot pay fees and as it stands, only 10% of parents pay," said Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson, Steve Mabona.
Hoërskool Vryburger, a prominent high school in Primrose, faces imminent collapse as only 10% of parents can pay their children’s school fees.
This dire situation has led to Ekurhuleni cutting off the school’s electricity supply, exacerbating the challenges for learners and teachers.
Vryburger has long been a cornerstone of the Primrose community.
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However, these financial woes have placed its future in jeopardy, prompting concerns from both the community and education authorities.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) acknowledged Vryburger’s predicament.
Steve Mabona, spokesperson of the GDE confirmed most of this school’s parents cannot pay fees.
Mabona said the department provides subsidies for various school expenses, including maintenance and learner support materials, but Vryburger’s fee income remains insufficient.
In response to the crisis, the department advised Hoërskool Vryburger to consider changing its fee status to that of a no-fee school.
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An application for this status change is expected to be submitted before June 30, with the department committing to assume responsibility for municipal accounts and doubling learner allocations.
Community members, including Louis Britz, have voiced their concerns over the school’s financial strain, highlighting the impact on essential resources such as writing supplies and utilities.
Britz called on urgent action to prevent the school from closure. He urged for public support to address the situation.
“The school cannot operate to its full potential without electricity since worksheets cannot be printed, classroom lights cannot be turned on, making it difficult for the learners.
“Without electricity, there is no way to conduct computer classes.
“The teachers are making every effort to maintain operations, even if it means meeting with learners after school or making purchases with their own money,” said Britz.
“Should things continue in this manner, Vryburger will have to close.“
The GCN sent a request for comment to the City of Ekurhuleni on April 18, requesting comment by April 19 at 13:00.
By the time of going to print, we received no comment.
