WCED Confirms Manenberg Primary School Will Not Close

Published on

16 February 2026

Manenberg primary school will not close — Image: CANTAG Crime and Security

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has sent out a stern warning to the public to refrain from spreading misinformation that could cause unnecessary panic.

Earlier this morning, parents and learners gathered outside Manenberg Primary School, demanding to be addressed by a school representative as concerns were sparked by a WhatsApp message claiming that the school will close down.

WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond reassured the public that the school is not closing and urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information.

“Someone allegedly sent out a message on a WhatsApp group falsely indicating that the school was going to close. The WCED can confirm that this is incorrect. The school is NOT closing. The school has informed us that they have engaged with the parents to confirm this fact. The matter is thus resolved. We do, however, appeal to the public to refrain from spreading false rumours which unnecessarily cause panic and stress for no reason.”

Loushe Jordaan-Gilbert

Loushé Jordaan Gilbert has been telling community stories since 2014. She began her career as a community journalist, dedicated to amplifying local voices and shedding light on the everyday realities communities face.