The rural villages of Phuthini, Upper Phirintsu, and Lower Phirintsu are grappling with the devastating news that their schools will be closing down in April 2026. Nqalweni Primary School, Phutini Primary School, and Phirintsu Junior Secondary School will soon be a distant memory, leaving behind a trail of uncertainty and fear.
Chief Xolisa Sphambo, who has been fighting tooth and nail to save the schools, expressed the community’s outrage and desperation. “We’ve tried everything to plead with the department to reconsider. These schools are the heart of our villages. What will happen to our children?”
Parents are terrified about the safety of their kids, who will have to travel long distances to attend new schools. Scholar transport is promised, but it’s scant comfort when the roads are in disrepair and rain makes them impassable.
“This is a disaster,” says Nolindani Sgam, SGB member at Phirintsu Junior Secondary School. “Our heritage is being erased. What’s the point of education if we’re just going to be pushed aside?”
Thembalethu Mdladlamba, a parent, blames government neglect for the low enrollment rates. “Parents are forced to relocate seeking better living conditions, taking their children with them. It’s a vicious cycle.”
Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima explains, “In terms of section 33 of the South African Schools Act, schools with less than 135 learners must be rationalized or closed.” He also said, “Educators will be redeployed, and affected schools will amalgamate with Hlanganisa. The planned time frame is April 2026 depending on the availability of the scholar transport”
But what about support staff? Feeding scheme members like Noncedo Dada are left in limbo. “At least communicate with us about our future,” she pleads.
Ward 14 councillor Akhona Sphambo confirms scholar transport is promised, but the community remains skeptical. Will this closure spell doom for these rural villages? The fight’s far from over with a meeting between the community and the department of education scheduled for later this month.
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