The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) stated that the cause of a fire that led to two classroom containers being burnt down at Thuto Lefa Secondary School in Munsieville may be linked to learners being unhappy with their exam timetable change.

“Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident. Subsequently, five learners were arrested [four in Grade 10 and one in Grade Nine],” said GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona.

”According to information at our disposal, the fire broke out on the school premises on Wednesday afternoon, August 6. It is alleged that the incident may be linked to learner dissatisfaction with recent timetable changes introduced by the school. The objective of this adjustment is to ensure the completion of the academic syllabus and to provide adequate revision time ahead of upcoming preliminary examinations,” he added.

@caxton.jhbwest Two classroom containers were burnt down at Thuto Lefa Secondary School in Munsieville. #saps #fire #schoolonfire #munsiville #studentsarrested #caxtonlocalmedia #schoolfire #fyp #krugersdorpnews ♬ original sound – Caxton JHB West

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane also condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms.

“Burning a classroom is not a form of protest; it is a criminal act that robs learners of their right to quality education. We will not tolerate such destructive behaviour, and those responsible must face the full consequences of the law,” Chiloane said.

According to Mabona, the department will work with the school and relevant stakeholders to ensure that learning continues with minimal disruption.

“Officials will assess the damage and will implement immediate interventions, including the possible deployment of temporary infrastructure,” he concluded.

No injuries were reported despite significant damage.