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The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) regrettably confirms that a fire broke out at Thuto-Lefa Secondary School in Munsieville, Krugersdorp earlier this afternoon on Wednesday, 6 August 2025, resulting in the destruction of two mobile classrooms.
According to information at our disposal, the fire broke out on school premises on Wednesday afternoon. It is alleged that the incident may be linked to learner dissatisfaction with recent timetable changes introduced by the school. The objective of this adjustment is to ensure the completion of the academic syllabus and to provide adequate revision time ahead of upcoming preliminary examinations.
The police are investigating circumstances surrounding this incident. Subsequently, five learners (four in Grade 10 and one in Grade 9) were arrested accordingly.
It is deeply concerning that opposition to academic planning may have been expressed through such a destructive act.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms. “Burning a classroom is not a form of protest, it is a criminal act that robs learners of their right to quality education. We will not tolerate such destructive behaviour, and those responsible must face the full consequences of the law,” said MEC Chiloane.
The Department will work with the school and relevant stakeholders to ensure that learning continues with minimal disruption. Officials will assess the damage and will implement immediate interventions, including the possible deployment of temporary infrastructure.
“The Department will not hesitate to act decisively in defence of the schooling environment. We urge learners, communities, parents, and learners to work together with school leadership and authorities to preserve the integrity of our schools,” said MEC Chiloane.
INFO SUPPLIED.