The treacherous weather conditions resulted in learners and teachers being trapped at a school in the province.
Around 40 learners and 12 educators from Tholulwazi High in Molweni were trapped after the bridge they used to cross the river to get to school was washed away.
The Grade 12 learners had been attending extra tuition classes.
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU), in collaboration with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), worked tirelessly to rescue the teachers and students.
They procured a helicopter as well as a boat to assist the trapped schoolgoers.
SADTU said, “SADTU understands the stress that these teachers and learners encountered. We will do anything to support them recover from the pain and trauma they currently feel. We are also engaging local community members to provide all the necessary support to the teachers and learners”.
The union also called on members of the community to stand together and support their neighbours during this difficult time.
Affected schools in KZN will remain closed until Tuesday, 19 April 2022.
