A tug of war is currently brewing between the Department of Education and the school management, parents and guardians of Magovhani Primary, a school situated at Ravele village.

When the school reopened last Wednesday, no books were found at the school. When parents inquired at the school, they were told that the books would be delivered in February. “We were shocked to find out that our children were not given exercise books,” said one of the parents, Ms Maria Shandukani. She added that they were extremely concerned about it. According to her, the department promised to visit the school, but never fulfilled their promise.

Another parent, who wants to remain anonymous, said that the government promised that education was free, “…but this is not free education at all. The government must supply books in time so that our children will be taught.”

Angry parents went to the Soutpansberg West Circuit Manager, Mr Johaness Ramuedzisi, to enquire about the situation. Ramuedzisi allegedly told the parents that he was not aware that the books had not been delivered and he promised to inquire at the department.

The principal of Magovhani, Ms Patricia Ramano, refused to comment. When Mirror visited the school, we found learners playing outside the classes.

The spokesperson for the Department of Education in Limpopo, Mr Ndo Mangala, was not aware of the situation at Mogovhani. “There are always challenges when it comes to suppliers who supply books to schools.” Mangala further promised that the department would look at all possibilities in trying to provide books as a matter of urgency and to address this challenge.