Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has welcomed a Pretoria High Court ruling ordering the City of Tshwane to immediately restore electricity to schools that were disconnected over unpaid property rates.
Maile acknowledged that many municipalities are currently battling serious cash flow problems, rising debt, and the ongoing effects of the high cost of living. He noted that these economic pressures have made it increasingly difficult for both residents and local businesses to pay for services.
However, Maile warned that interrupting education comes at a far greater social cost, particularly for vulnerable communities that rely heavily on public schools.
“Schools are and must remain a public good. Basic education is a fundamental human right that provides equitable access to opportunities, fosters democracy, and serves as a cornerstone for societal development and poverty reduction,” Maile said.
Mec Maile said that the ruling stresses the importance of protecting teaching and learning across the province and the country at large.
“Schools are and must remain a public good. Basic education is a fundamental human right that provides equitable access to opportunities, fosters democracy, and serves as a cornerstone for societal development and poverty reduction.”
Maile noted that while municipalities depend on revenue collection to fund services, infrastructure and staff salaries schools should not become victims of financial disputes.
Puleng Maake
www.ewn.co.za
