The Mpumalanga Department of Education has announced the temporary suspension of classes in the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality following persistent heavy rainfall that has disrupted schooling in the area.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, the department said it held an urgent meeting with District Directors and affected Circuit Managers to assess the impact of the ongoing weather conditions on teaching and learning across the province.

The department noted that schools in the Nkangala and Gert Sibande districts have reopened smoothly, with teaching and learning commencing without major challenges. This, it said, has created a positive and focused environment for learners and educators in those areas.

However, conditions in the Bohlabela District, particularly in Bushbuckridge, remain a cause for concern. Continuous rainfall has resulted in waterlogged and inaccessible roads, making it difficult for some learners and teachers to reach their schools safely.

As a result, the department has decided to temporarily suspend classes in the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality for two days, from Thursday, 15 January to Friday, 16 January 2026.

In the broader Ehlanzeni District, school principals have been granted the authority to use their discretion, based on on-the-ground assessments, to determine whether it is safe for schools to operate. This measure is aimed at ensuring the safety of both learners and staff.

The department emphasised that the advisory allowing schools to exercise discretion remains in place for all areas currently affected by rainfall. However, due to the severity of conditions reported in Bushbuckridge, a full temporary suspension was deemed necessary.

Community members have been urged to remain vigilant and to prioritise safety at all times. The department strongly appealed to residents not to attempt crossing flooded rivers, submerged bridges or unsafe roads under any circumstances.

“The safety of our children is a shared responsibility,” the department said, adding that it will continue to closely monitor developments and provide updates as the situation evolves.