Fifty-seven schools in the Western Cape were subject to burglary or vandalism during the June/July school holidays. 

The Provincial Education Department confirmed that 67 such incidents were reported at these schools, which have resulted in “substantial” financial losses.  

“Estimated costs have now amounted to more than R2.1 million so far,” said spokesperson Bronagh Hammond.  

Hammond noted that computer rooms and kitchens used for the schools’ nutrition programme were the primary targets, with perpetrators going as far as stealing vegetables from school gardens or even donated school shoes.  

“Items most frequently stolen or damaged included electrical cables, internet and Wi-Fi cabling, electrical wiring, air conditioning systems, gas cylinders, light fixtures and copper piping,” said Hammond. 

She added that some schools noted “secondary damage” due to water infrastructure being deliberately vandalised.  

Hammond stressed that the consequences extend beyond the theft or damaged buildings. 

“This is not just [an] attack on our property, it is an attack on opportunities for our children.” 

Further to this, the department commended law enforcement and school security personnel for their response.  

“While we commend SAPS and the security teams that were stationed at schools for their swift interventions and arrests in some of these cases, these incidents highlight the critical need for vigilance and community partnerships to protect our schools,” said Hammond. 

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