Admin block gutted by fire at Sibongile Combined School in Matsulu

Parents of learners at Sibongile Combined School say they are saddened by a recent fire that broke out at the school.

The principal’s office and the admin block were reportedly destroyed on Sunday, October 5.

Some of the items lost in the fire included computers, laptops, learners’ tablets and important documents.

Busisiwe Shongwe, a parent who spoke to Lowvelder Express, said this is not the first time the school’s admin block has been destroyed by fire, and she warned that if similar incidents continue to happen, the area might lose its only school.

Shongwe added that Matsulu (Youth Centre) has only one high school, and parents are grateful that their children do not have to travel far for education.

She also suggested that the learners might have information about the fire. “We urge the police to take stern action in the investigation and ensure that anyone involved is arrested. We also call on the community and parents to work with the police to identify and apprehend those responsible,” she said.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson Sergeant Thulisile Magagula said the fire broke out at about 23:00. She added that the cause of the fire is still unclear. On Tuesday, October 7, Magagula confirmed that an inquiry has been opened, but no arrests have been made.

At the time of publishing, an enquiry had been sent to the Department of Education, however, no response has been received.