https://www.news24.com/news24/southafrica/news/eastern-cape-pupils-burn-unsuitable-school-building-demand-better-learning-property-20230902
Upper Corana Senior Secondary School in Libode, Eastern Cape, witnessed a distressing day as students took matters into their own hands, resulting in the burning down of school buildings. Their grievance revolved around the deteriorating state of the school’s infrastructure, which they deemed unfit for their educational needs.
The students’ actions have raised concerns about the impact on Matric students who are in the midst of preparing for their upcoming examinations. The destruction of school property adds an additional layer of stress and uncertainty to an already challenging academic year.
Upper Corana Senior Secondary School is situated in a rural area of Eastern Cape, and media reports have highlighted the dilapidated condition of the school buildings, suggesting that the students’ frustrations may have been justified, although their response was destructive.
In another concerning development within the Eastern Cape, Buffalo City Metro ratepayers have initiated protests against the city’s billing practices. Over 1,000 ratepayers have joined a WhatsApp group dedicated to addressing issues related to incorrect billing by the city.
Many ratepayers have turned to East London law firm Niehaus McMahon Attorneys to challenge the city’s billing practices and the controversial 80/20 deductions. The city had implemented a credit control policy, deducting 80% of electricity purchases to cover arrears related to water and fire levies, leaving ratepayers with only 20% of their electricity units.
The controversy arises from the city’s implementation of these deductions without providing written notices to affected ratepayers. In a recent legal development, the East London high court found the city’s failure to provide 14 days’ written notice before implementing the 80/20 deductions to be unlawful.
Ratepayers, such as Thokozile Qabaka from Haven Hills, have faced substantial challenges with water bills and have raised concerns about the city’s billing practices. These developments reflect ongoing frustrations and discontentment among residents of the Buffalo City Metro area, adding to the region’s challenges and concerns.
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