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Author: Thando Ngcume
Date: 20/06/2025
| EC EDUCATION PAYS VISIT TO DISASTER-AFFECTED SCHOOLS IN MTHATHA By: Thando Ngcume The devastating floods in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, have left a trail of destruction in their wake with schools, homes, and lives affected [lost]. In the midst of this chaos, the Eastern Cape Education Department has stepped up to support learners and educators impacted by the disaster. EC Education Head of Department, Sharon Maasdorp, visited Jumba Senior Secondary School in Mthatha to offer support to the affected schools in the OR Tambo Inland Education District. According to Maasdorp, the visit demonstrated the department’s commitment to supporting learners and educators in times of need and prioritizing learners' emotional and psychological well-being, deploying counselors, and supporting staff in affected schools. "My heart goes out to the learners and staff of Jumba SSS and the entire community affected by the devastating floods in Mthatha, the loss of 10 precious lives is a shocking tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who sadly passed away. To the 3 survivors, we offer our support and care. We are committed to providing counseling and resources to help learners cope with this traumatic event. We will work tirelessly to ensure that our schools are a safe and supportive environment for all learners," emphasized Maasdorp. The department also took specific actions to support affected schools by visiting Efata Special School pledging to fix the security fence and repair any damage caused by the disaster, ensuring a safer environment for learners. Additionally, at Nelson Mandela Park Primary School, the department officials handed out food parcels to affected families, providing much-needed relief during this difficult time. OR Tambo Inland Education District Director, Fundiswa Makrwede welcomed the Head of Department’s visit. "We appreciate the leadership shown by Sharon Maasdorp in visiting our district during this challenging time, her presence demonstrates commitment to supporting learners and educators”. Abathembu Chief, Nokhakha Jumba speaking on behalf of the community, expressed gratitude for the department's prompt response. "We applaud the Eastern Cape Education Department for showing compassion and care to our children and community during this dark time. Their support means a lot to us, and we appreciate their commitment to our learners' well-being”. Lusindiso Nanosi, an educator at Jumba SSS, shared her thoughts on the department's visit. "The visit from the Head of Department brought much needed comfort and reassurance to our learners and staff. It is a reminder that we are not alone in this tragedy and that our department truly cares about our well-being”, said Nanosi. |
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