Another exposed electrical cable at Mayibuye High School caused panic among learners on August 12, with learners scrambling for safety as concerns over the deteriorating condition of the school continue to mount.

The latest incident comes less than two weeks after a fire broke out at the school on July 31, destroying some of the container classrooms that were intended to accommodate Grade 12 learners.

The school community has repeatedly raised concerns about the safety of the school, with parents, learners, and School Governing Body (SGB) members calling for urgent intervention from the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE).

Read more: Fire at Mayibuye High School extinguished

On July 27, Midrand Reporter reported on yet another exposed electrical cable at the school that was burning and prompted learners to leave the premises early.

The latest incident has renewed calls for immediate action, with the community warning that the condition of the school poses a serious risk to learners and staff.

SGB member Elizabeth Sithole said the exposed cable on August 12 was particularly concerning given the rainy and cold weather conditions.

“Imagine if a child were electrocuted. It is cold and rainy, classes do not have doors and windows. How can teaching and learning take place in such an environment?” said Sithole.

The community has also raised concerns about the suitability of the school’s infrastructure, stating that the ongoing problems are making it increasingly difficult for learners to receive an education in a safe and conducive environment.

The July 31 fire added to these concerns after several container classrooms were damaged. The affected classrooms were reportedly meant to be allocated to Grade 12 learners.

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Community members have previously said they have held several engagements with education officials in an effort to have the school’s challenges addressed but claim their concerns have not received adequate attention.

The latest developments also come as Midrand Reporter continues to seek answers from the GDE about the challenges at Mayibuye High School.

The publication first sent queries to the department on July 25 and followed up through several emails and telephone calls regarding the school’s infrastructure and safety concerns.

On August 12, the department acknowledged receipt of the latest follow-up and indicated that a response was forthcoming.

“The inquiries are many; be assured we will respond before end of business today [August 12],” said GDE spokesperson Onwabile Lubhelwana.

The department’ response will be published once received.

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