Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Msindisi Fengu
Published on 2024-02-21 08:04:19
Following the tragic deaths of at least three students in pit latrines at South African schools, members of Parliament have called on education authorities to submit a detailed report within 60 days containing timelines and deadlines to eradicate such structures in Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal. This comes after a draft report was adopted by the portfolio committee on basic education in Parliament, following a petition from Nguvu Collective Change leader Yongama Zigebe, who also serves as the secretary-general of the United Democratic Movement (UDM).
The petition, which brought in more than 5,000 signatures, called on the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the government to eradicate pit latrines in rural schools in the three provinces. The DBE has been instructed to provide alternative solutions for ablution facilities for schools with water scarcity, ensure the availability of new ablution facilities as soon as possible, and regularly update the committee on the progress made in eradicating pit latrines. Additionally, the MPs recommended that the DBE brief Zigebe about the progress made in eradicating the latrines, with the aim of ensuring the provision of safe and hygienic facilities for pupils.
Zigebe has commended the emphasis on exploring alternative solutions for ablution facilities in schools facing water scarcity, as well as the commitment to transparency and accountability shown by the committee. He stated that involving affected communities in the decision-making process is crucial to ensure that their needs are adequately addressed. Furthermore, he expressed confidence that by working together and implementing these measures, significant strides can be made towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all learners in South African schools.
Zigebe’s petition highlighted the human rights violation posed by the use of pit latrines in schools, citing the South African Constitution’s guarantees of the right to life, dignity, safety, health, proper sanitation, and a conducive environment for education. Notably, the petition referenced the Polokwane High Court ruling, which ordered the eradication of pit latrines in schools across South Africa following the tragic death of Michael Komape in 2014. Despite the court ruling, Zigebe lamented the lack of urgency displayed by the DBE in addressing this critical issue.
The DBE’s lack of progress in eradicating pit latrines has been a source of concern, particularly in light of the commitment made by Minister Angie Motshekga to eliminate pit latrine toilets in public schools by 2025. With only 15 months remaining until the 2025 deadline, there are still over 3,000 schools with illegal pit latrines that need to be addressed. Zigebe urged the government to take swift action in demolishing and replacing these structures to prevent further tragedies.
The DBE’s spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga, emphasized the department’s support for the committee’s recommendations and stated that the DBE regularly reports to the Portfolio Committee on the progress of its infrastructure projects. Despite the inherent challenges faced by infrastructure projects, Mhlanga assured that the DBE and provincial education departments are committed to working towards setting and meeting targets in line with their annual performance plans.
In conclusion, the urgent need to eradicate pit latrines in South African schools is evident in the tragic deaths that have occurred in recent years. The government, education authorities, and relevant stakeholders must work collaboratively to ensure that the safety and well-being of all learners are prioritized through the provision of safe and hygienic facilities. By implementing the committee’s recommendations and holding the relevant stakeholders accountable, significant progress can be made towards fulfilling the constitutional guarantees of the right to life, dignity, and a conducive environment for education for all South African learners.
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