Parents in Croquetlawn have kept hundreds of learners at home as frustration grows over the condition of Hlanganani Primary School, where pupils have been taught in temporary container classrooms since four school blocks were destroyed by strong winds in 2014.

Community leaders say the containers, intended as a short-term solution, have become unfit for learning. Learners face extreme heat in summer and freezing conditions in winter, with many unable to attend classes as temperatures drop.

The Croquetlawn Community Development Task Team met with Department of Education officials on 25 May to demand urgent intervention. According to chairperson Genaro Ubisi, the department cited budget constraints and low enrolment figures, claims the community strongly disputes.

The task team says Hlanganani Primary has more than 300 learners, Nembe Mhlaba Primary has over 380 learners, and Luka High School has more than 700 learners. Ubisi also noted that the village has expanded significantly, with more than 500 new houses built since the department last conducted assessments.

The department has promised to provide a commitment letter by 15 June. However, many parents remain unconvinced and say learners will stay at home until they receive clear guarantees on the future of the schools.

Community leaders warn that years of unanswered petitions and meetings have left residents feeling ignored, despite choosing peaceful engagement over protest. They are calling for the immediate rebuilding of Hlanganani Primary School and intervention at other ageing schools in the village.