5 Pupils arrested after torching school over timetable tiff

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Johannesburg – Five pupils from Thuto-Lefa Secondary School in Munsieville, Krugersdorp, have been arrested for allegedly setting fire to two mobile classrooms in protest against recent timetable changes.

The Gauteng Department of Education said the changes aimed to support syllabus completion and exam preparation.

The fire, which broke out on Wednesday afternoon, is under police investigation.

Education officials, including MEC Matome Chiloane, condemned the act as criminal, not a form of protest, and emphasised the importance of safeguarding education.

“Burning a classroom is not a form of protest; it is a criminal act that robs pupils of their right to quality education. We will not tolerate such destructive behaviour, and those responsible must face the full consequences of the law,” said Chiloane.

The department plans to assess the damage and implement emergency measures to continue teaching with minimal disruption.

“Officials will assess the damage and will implement immediate interventions, including the possible deployment of temporary infrastructure.

“The department will not hesitate to act decisively in defence of the schooling environment. We urge learners, communities, parents, and pupils to work together with school leadership and authorities to preserve the integrity of our schools,” said Chiloane.

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