The Free State Department of Education believes arson is behind a devastating fire that destroyed five classrooms at Refihletse Combined School in Verkeerdevlei on Tuesday night. Four classrooms, including a kitchen, staff room, and a Grade 6 classroom, were completely gutted, while a Grade R classroom was partially damaged.
This is the second suspected arson attack at the school in recent weeks, following an unsuccessful attempt to burn a Grade 1 classroom last month.
Community Alerted Authorities
School principal was notified by community members who spotted the blaze late Tuesday evening. The fire not only destroyed vital learning spaces but also critical infrastructure, including kitchen equipment used for the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP).
“The fire has severely impacted the school’s feeding scheme, as the kitchen was completely burnt down,” said Howard Ndaba, spokesperson for the Department of Education. Books, furniture, and gas cylinders in the kitchen were also lost in the fire.
Department Condemns Attack, Vows Support
Ndaba described the incident as an act of “high treason,” given the school’s importance as the only educational facility in Verkeerdevlei, serving over 500 learners.
While the exact cost of the damage is still being assessed, the department has pledged to intervene to minimize disruptions. “Our infrastructure team will conduct a full assessment once police conclude their investigations,” Ndaba said. “We will ensure teaching continues and make alternative arrangements for the nutrition program.”
Authorities have not yet identified suspects, but the repeated targeting of the school has raised concerns. Police are investigating the incident, and the department has urged the community to assist in preventing further attacks.
Refihletse Combined School now faces the challenge of recovering from the destruction as officials work to restore normalcy for students and staff.