The IFP call for metal detectors, CCTV cameras and security personnel to be available at all schools for the safety of students, staff and school personnel as well as to deter students and visitors from bringing weapons to school after a deputy school principal, Mr Vusi Ntombela at Luvusi Primary School in Nquthu, Northern KwaZulu-Natal was shot dead in front of the learners while teaching in class yesterday.
“This incident is a clear indication that the KZN Department of Education has failed dismally to take the issue of school safety seriously. We have raised our concerns about lack of safety in schools many times in the past but our call fell on deaf ears and now again lives have been lost. The MEC of Education Peggy Nkonyeni must take the blame for her failure to increase security in our schools,” said IFP KZN Spokesperson on Education, Mrs Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa, MPL.
“The most obvious benefit of placing metal detectors at school entrances is the immediate detection of weapons on students and visitors as they enter the premises. Detection of a weapon on a student or guest is a proactive step that public facilities can take to prevent a tragic incident from happening. Proper fencing around schools will deter people from walking onto school premises undetected. Schools must have an entrance with security detectors ensuring that all individual entering and/or leaving the building or gates are scanned,” continued Mrs Madlopha-Mthethwa.
“The question of cost for the detectors and the implementation, which includes training of personnel, may also arise. But can one put a price on the lives and the safety of the students and staff? concluded Mrs Madlopha-Mthethwa.
The IFP would like to send its deepest condolences to the Ntombela and Nhleko families and wish Bongumusa Cele who is in a critical condition in hospital a speedy recovery.
Issued by: IFP KZN Education Spokesperson, Mrs Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, MPL, 071 884 3844 or 079 114 3015
Media enquiries:
Mr Phendulani Biyase, IFP KZN Legislature Media Liaison Officer, 073 024 5675
