We must protect our schools against criminals

There is something seriously wrong with a society that targets institutions of learning and the leaders in charge of shaping the education of those learners.

It has been a harrowing couple of weeks for schools in parts of Nelson Mandela Bay as 10 state schools were robbed by armed assailants and two principals were shot at within less than a week.

Schools have always been regarded as sanctuaries that are protected by communities because the majority value the importance of education in changing the lives of young people and their families for the better.

Though we have seen schools vandalised and equipment stolen periodically over the years — this newspaper has published countless reports on this — it was never as brazen as it appears to be now.

In the robberies, which took place at five schools in New Brighton and five in Kwazakhele from Wednesday last week to Sunday, staff lost laptops, phones and other personal belongings.

Eastern Cape education MEC Fundile Gade said all government institutions and facilities were under attack in Gqeberha, and his assertion was spot on.

Whether it is because of a lack of visible law enforcement, a complete disregard for the rule of law, or perhaps criminals feeling emboldened because they get away with it, facilities in the Bay are under siege and this must be stopped, immediately.

Gade said: “We are sensitising society and parents of this shame, as this seeks to derail the progress made to date.

“We urge the people of Gqeberha to get involved and work with the law enforcement agencies to protect government facilities in the metro, including our schools.”

The onus is on residents to protect these vital institutions which are the lifeblood of communities. 

No country can thrive if schools are besieged by criminals.

These schools serve communities, not the government.

Therefore, to protect schools and teachers is to protect pupils and the future leaders of SA.

HeraldLIVE