ICT infrastructure in KZN schools targeted by criminals

KWAZULU-Natal schools are under siege from criminals targeting their information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure.

- THOBEKA NGEMA

Several schools have been robbed of their ICT infrastructure in recent weeks.

KZN Education Department spokesperson Mlu Mtshali said the department is aware of these incidents.

He stated that although schools have security measures in place, they are insufficient, as criminals manage to break in and overpower the guards.

“We need to do more to protect schools,” Mtshali said.

He said criminals were targeting schools with ICT infrastructure, which was concerning for the Department of Education.

“We're engaging with our stakeholders, police, CPFs, traditional leaders, and communities, about how we can better improve school safety,” Mtshali said.

The Public Servants Association (PSA) expressed concern over the recent spate of burglaries at Pietermaritzburg schools.

Mentioning a few incidents, the PSAs Charles Ngubane said that at Inzuzwenhle Full Service School, thieves stole eight laptops kept in a safe, 11 computer towers, a Wi-Fi sim card, and an extension cord.