School unable to sustain constant burning, expected to close

A HIGH school in Western is expected to close on Friday because some of its buildings had recently been subjected to “arson”, according to the principal.
Galbert Anep, the deputy principal of Ningerum High School, said the school could not sustain the repeated burning of its buildings and could face “suspension or closure” on Friday (Sept 7).
In 2015, nine boys’ dormitories were burnt down. Last year, there was an attempted arson case a classroom.
A week later, another boys’ dormitory was burnt down.
This year, a school laboratory was targeted by arsonists. Later, an administration office was burnt down.
The most recent case was last Friday where Anep’s quarters was again targetted.
Anep said the sad thing was they did not know what had happened to the investigations conducted by provincial education authorities.
“They must have been shelved away,” he said. “We are confused as to what is happening to the school infrastructures as communities are blaming the school teachers and students and the school is blaming the communities.”
The school is expecting a decision from the provincial education board whether it will be suspended or closed for good. It is level seven high school with around 500 students – 300 borders and 200 day scholars.
Deputy Secretary School and Education Standards Walipe Wingi said arson was a criminal matter and police should be called in to investigate.