School Gate Controversy: Learners Turned Away for Arriving Late

An incident involving several learners being denied entry at Tiphembeleni Primary School and Lekazi Primary School has raised concerns among community members of Kanyamazane about school access and punctuality policies.

According to reports, two learners one in Grade 5 and another in Grade 6 were unable to enter the school premises after arriving late. It is alleged that the school gate had already been locked, preventing them from attending classes for the day.

In a separate observation, three younger children, believed to be between the ages of 5 – 7, were seen walking back home before 08:00 in the morning. Community members claim the children had also been turned away after arriving when the gates were already closed.

Primary schools typically begin their day between 07:30 and 08:00, with many requiring learners to be on-site earlier for assembly or registration. However, the situation has sparked debate around how late arrivals should be handled, especially when it comes to the safety and well-being of young children.

The principal of Lekazi Primary School responded to the issue, stating that at their institution, learners are never turned away, even if they arrive late. She emphasized that schools have a responsibility to ensure that children are safe once they reach the school premises.

At the same time, she highlighted the importance of parental responsibility, noting that parents are aware of school starting times and are expected to ensure that their children arrive punctually.