Pupils miss out on two months of schooling due to flea infestation

Asbestos roofing further endangers children's lives

- By Tshwarelo eseng Mogakane

Scores of pupils have been forced to abandon classes for the past two months due to a flea infestation caused by pigs at a primary school in Mpumalanga.

Pupils at Pilgrim's Rest Primary School were also forced to take lessons under a hazardous asbestos roofing before the school was eventually shut down.

A report seen by Sunday World confirmed the school was shut in early February after health inspectors from the Ehlanzeni District Municipality found shocking conditions.

"There was an excessive number of pigs that were found under the temporary structures used by the ABET team, Grade R, Grade 5 and Grade 7 pupils. The above-mentioned classrooms were not accessible due to the infestations of fleas. The fleas were also present in other classrooms and ablution facilities," the report noted.

"There was overgrown vegetation within the school yard, and (a lot) of domestic animals such as pigs, chickens and dogs. These animals were found roaming around the school yard and some in the classrooms."

According to the inspectors, animals entered the premises due to an old, damaged fence and unlocked gates.

"Based on the conditions, it is evident that the current condition of Pilgrim's Rest Primary School poses a significant danger to health and safety of the children and staff. Therefore, the school is hereby prohibited from using these premises from the date of receipt of this report."