Some Limpopo learners still under trees
Limpopo learners face harsh conditions as overcrowded schools lack classrooms, forcing maths and science lessons to be held outdoors.
LIMPOPO – Despite three decades of democracy, some learners in Limpopo still attend classes under trees due to a severe lack of infrastructure.
This shocking reality was witnessed firsthand when the media visited Muvhavha Secondary School in Tswinga village, just outside Thohoyandou, where Gr 10, 11, and 12 mathematics and science classes were being conducted outdoors.
School Governing Body (SGB) chairperson Thomas Mudzusi expressed frustration, saying despite repeated pleas to the Department of Education, the school still faces critical shortages of classrooms, teachers, and infrastructure. “Our learners continue to achieve impressive matric results, with a pass rate increasing from 87.1% in 2023 to 96.2% in 2024, yet the department expects good results without investing in proper learning conditions,” he said.
He emphasised the urgent need for mobile classrooms, which would provide a more suitable learning environment than holding lessons under trees.
SGB national secretary, Matakanye Matakanye, called the situation unacceptable. “It is heartbreaking that after 30 years of democracy, learners are still forced to study under trees. This disgraceful practice cannot continue. Officials need to wake up and take action,” he said.
Matakanye further alleged that money meant for improving education infrastructure were being misused. “If the matter is not attended to, we will escalate the matter to the Minister of Education,” he warned.
The DA in Limpopo has since written to Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, urging immediate intervention. DA Limpopo education spokesperson Jacques Smalle highlighted the dire conditions at Muvhavha Secondary School, which caters for over 600 learners but lacks sufficient classrooms.
“It is a matter of overcrowding, deteriorating infrastructure, and a shortage of teachers, with only 13 teachers instead of the required 17,” he stated.
Smalle stressed the urgent need for mobile classrooms to protect learners from harsh weather conditions. “The Department of Education is failing its learners and teachers by not fulfilling its mandate to provide a conducive learning environment. No child should have to learn under a tree,” he said.
In response, Education spokesperson Mike Maringa acknowledged the issue, saying mobile classrooms had been procured but were diverted to schools affected by recent storms. He clarified that only maths and science classes lacked space and that learners used outdoor spaces only during those periods. However, he assured that three mobile classrooms would be delivered to the school in February.
