Mbabane- Atleast four teachers at Ekukhanyeni Primary School in the Lubombo region under Sithobelweni Inkhundla are reportedly living under difficult conditions following delays in the renovation of staff quarters, which were demolished over a year ago.
A community member told this publication that educators have been forced to stay in overcrowded and uncomfortable temporary structures since January last year, despite initial assurances that the project would be completed within three months.
According to the source, male and female teachers are currently accommodated in a single structure partitioned into small rooms, raising concerns over privacy and dignity.
“They are sharing one place with very little privacy. There is only one toilet, and both male and female teachers use it. Some are even staying with their children. The situation is not good,” said the resident.
The source further alleged that the living conditions are harsh, with poorly ventilated rooms that become extremely hot, leading to damage of personal belongings, including clothes and furniture. Some teachers have reportedly been forced to store their belongings in classrooms, while others including the headteacher are said to be sleeping in classrooms due to limited space.
The situation has also affected teaching and learning, with the school reportedly facing challenges during examinations last year due to a shortage of classrooms.
“There were not enough classrooms because some are being used for storage and accommodation,” the source said, adding that the thin partitions offer no soundproofing, making it difficult for teachers to have privacy.
The resident also highlighted the financial strain on teachers, noting that some are compelled to travel home on weekends despite lacking adequate funds, simply to escape the conditions.
Meanwhile, it is alleged that progress on the construction project has been hindered by labour disputes, with workers reportedly downing tools over unpaid wages. Some workers are said to have gone for up to six months without receiving salaries.
However, the school headteacher, Mr Mamba, offered a different perspective on the situation. He confirmed that there is a four-bedroom house currently accommodating teachers, with two female and two male teachers sharing the facility.
“They share the kitchen, but the bathroom and toilet are separate. They do not share bedrooms,” he said.
Mamba acknowledged that Micro- Project is on the ground renovating the teachers’ quarters, and the school committee had arranged alternative accommodation in nearby homesteads for affected teachers.
“Some teachers were offered accommodation within the community, but these four opted to remain in the current arrangement,” he explained.
Commenting on the matter, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, Naniki Mnisi, acknowledged the situation and said efforts are being made to address the challenges.
She confirmed that the renovation of teachers’ quarters is part of an ongoing initiative to improve staff welfare, and urged patience as the project progresses.
The situation at Ekukhanyeni has sparked concern among community members, with calls for faster completion of the project to ensure teachers are provided with safe, dignified, and suitable living conditions.
Discussion about this post