Parents from Noxolo Xauka Primary School in Makhaza are calling on the Western Cape Department of Education (WCDE) to strengthen security at the school, saying it has been repeatedly burgled this year.
They claim the school has been targeted almost every weekend.
Resident Nobubele Nyothama described the situation as deeply concerning and urged the WCDE to take urgent action.
“The break-ins at the school are getting out of hand. Every weekend, something happens. Learners’ textbooks are being stolen and the school is being vandalised by criminals,” she said.
Community calls for stronger security at Noxolo Xauka Primary School
Nyothama added that the community wants the department to hire security guards to protect the school at night.
“I believe these criminals are from this vicinity. They know there are no security guards at night and they do as they please. We need people who will be there overnight,” she said.
School governing body confirms ongoing security concerns
School Governing Body (SGB) member Lami Mgqilana confirmed that the school has been experiencing frequent break-ins and appealed for stronger security measures.
“Every weekend there is a break-in at the school. Criminals have stolen almost everything. It is becoming the norm. There are no security guards at night. We need the department to install cameras so we can monitor what is happening,” he said.
Mgqilana described the state of the school as “terrible”.
WCDE responds to reported break-in at the school
However, WCDE assistant director for digital media and communications support, Unathi Booi, said the department is only aware of one reported break-in this year, which occurred on Tuesday, 3 March.
“Doors and windows were vandalised during the break-in and stationery was stolen. The estimated cost of the damage is R25 000. There have been no other reported break-ins by the school to Safe Schools this year,” said Booi.
She added that the district is engaging with the school regarding safety concerns.
Police investigate burglary at Noxolo Xauka Primary School
Meanwhile, provincial police spokesperson Captain F.C. van Wyk confirmed that a business burglary case has been opened for investigation.
“According to reports, the incident occurred at a school building in Vumbululu Street, Makhaza, between Tuesday, 3 March at 15:00 and Monday, 9 March at 06:15. Property stolen includes chairs, doors and a laptop,” said Van Wyk.
He added that investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made.
