A devastating fire at Phoenix Secondary School in Durban has disrupted the start of the school year for hundreds of students. The fire, which broke out on Tuesday evening, caused significant damage to the library and reception area.
According to community member and parent, Donovan Pillay, the fire was already at its peak when he was alerted to the incident. Firefighters responded promptly, but the damage was already done.
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The school, located in a crime-prone area, has been left in a state of shock and uncertainty. Teachers stood in the corridors, witnessing the aftermath of the fire, as senior education department officials are expected to assess the extent of the damage.
This unfortunate incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of the school premises.
To restore normalcy and ensure uninterrupted teaching and learning, Pillay suggests the formation of a committee to facilitate the recovery process and raise funds.
The school, which had previously enjoyed a commendable track record, is now grappling with the impact of this act of vandalism. The motive behind the fire remains unknown, leaving the community in disbelief.
While arson is suspected, the police have yet to respond to inquiries. Students like the anonymous grade 10 pupil from KwaMashu express their disappointment and frustration, as their hopes of starting the year on a positive note have been shattered.
Parents, such as Fikile Biyela, who had plans to enroll her child in grade 8, now find themselves in a state of uncertainty, awaiting further updates from the school.
As the school community comes to terms with the damage caused by the fire, it is imperative that swift action is taken to restore the facilities and ensure the continuity of education for the affected students.
BREAKING NEWS | Reports of a fire at Phoenix Secondary School just as pupils prepare to return today.
Last night two men were spotted jumping off the school fence and running away. And then the important part of Phoenix Secondary School building including the Library and… pic.twitter.com/Q8E5dQVjd7
— Kwena Molekwa (@Miz_Ruraltarain) January 17, 2024
