Zikhethele Secondary School in Devon regularly floods because of poor and blocked drainage systems.

Every time it rains, classrooms flood, and the schoolyard turns into a muddy pit, forcing learners to wade ankle-deep through water to reach class.

The issue came to light during an oversight visit by several councillors as part of an ongoing monitoring initiative in areas in the Lesedi Local Municipality affected by failing infrastructure.

The visit aimed to assess governance performance and engage with the community. It was clear that the school’s infrastructure is below standard and deteriorating.

Roads in the area have potholes, and the lack of proper stormwater drainage makes the school nearly inaccessible in wet weather.

DA Midvaal Clr Mokete Motsamai expressed frustration over the ongoing crisis, saying he receives constant complaints from residents.

“It’s heartbreaking to see children arriving at school drenched, their shoes soaked, just because of something as basic as drainage,” said Motsamai.

“This situation has been ongoing since 2019, yet the municipality continues to turn a blind eye. These children deserve dignity and a safe learning environment.”

Teachers and community members said the seasonal recurring flooding worsens every year, which affects learning because they must often cancel classes, move desks, and clean classrooms after every downpour.

The school falls under the Lesedi Local Municipality (LLM), and despite numerous pleas for intervention, it has taken no action.

“These young learners continue to brave unsafe and unsanitary conditions to attend class, a testament to their resilience in the face of neglect,” Motsamai added.

“We’re not asking for miracles. We’re asking for basic services: Drainage, roads, and a school that doesn’t flood every time it rains. These learners cannot be expected to thrive when they’re literally walking through floodwater to get to class.”