A ROUTINE investigation into a minor gas explosion inside a library room at Khula High School in eSikhaleni led to the discovery that plenty is cooking in KZN schools. While investigating the incident, Eyethu Bay Watch found out that, to ensure food for marginalised pupils is prepared in a safe and hygienic environment, the KZN Department of Education (DoE) has rolled out 300 mobile kitchens for schools. The kitchens are fitted with sink, gas cylinders and gas stoves where fresh meals are prepared. The programme is part of the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), which provides healthy and nutritious meals to more than nine million learners across the country. A budget of R50-million has been put aside for the KZN roll-out, with schools within the King Cetshwayo District among the beneficiaries. The report was confirmed by King Cetshwayo DoE director David Chonco following a recent announcement by the KZN MEC for Education Kwazi Mshengu in Durban. ‘Schools have been identified as part of the first phase and the purpose is to make sure workers are safe. ‘Some schools don’t have kitchens and use classrooms, which is dangerous at times,’ said Chonco. The safety of learners and workers as well as an urgent need for mobile kitchens in schools became a burning issue after an explosion at Khula School on Monday. Learners writing their examinations in a classroom near the library said a loud bang echoed throughout the school at around 11am, and soon afterwards the classroom caught fire. A close assessment revealed a gas leak from a cylinder connected to a stove had triggered the explosion. ‘We were about to take a break and have lunch but everything was ruined,’ said a learner. The fire departments swiftly attended the scene and no injuries were reported. Even though the incident was minor, there was not much damage to property and all books were saved, authorities are still investigating. According to the department, it is expecting a detailed report from the school on why the library room was used for cooking purposes as this does not follow the regulations.