Viola Motsumi, the North West Department of Education MEC, has condemned a road blockage in Makgori Village near Mafikeng, which occurred on Monday during the first day of Grade 12 examinations. The blockage, was triggered by the community's demand for improved sanitation facilities, including toilets, which impeded the distribution of question papers to four secondary schools in the area.
The road blockages in four secondary schools, Ntsidi, Kagiso Barolong, Mothusi Marumula, and Mothibinyana Secondary Schools, disrupted the distribution of examination materials to students, as the community's decision to address sanitation demands was a deliberate act. Motsumi expressed deep concern over an incident obstructing the writing of Grade 12 examinations and called for immediate action from the police to arrest anyone involved.
Road blockages could have severely affected Grade 12 students' chances of sitting for their exams, as the first day of the exam sets the tone for the entire period. Delays or disruptions can cause stress and anxiety, negatively impacting their performance in high-stakes exams. "I wish to condemn in the strongest terms the blockage of the roads in Makgori Village. Such acts intends on frustrating and confusing our Grade 12 learners," Motsumi said.
The police intervened in the incident, allowing question papers to be transported to affected schools, enabling all learners to write the examination on the first day. This incident underscores the challenges faced by communities and the urgent need for improved access to essential facilities like sanitation. The incident in Makgori Village underscores the need to address underlying issues that can disrupt the education of the nation's youth, as education is a fundamental right.
The government and communities must collaborate to ensure students have the necessary resources and support to excel in their studies. The crisis in Makgori Village was resolved, but it should prompt broader infrastructure development and community engagement to improve South African citizens' lives, especially in underserved areas. Education is crucial for social mobility, and stakeholders must protect and promote it. MEC Motsumi's condemnation of road blockages in Makgori Village calls for action to address immediate concerns and build a brighter future for South Africa's youth.
