Minister Steenkamp Visits Flood-Affected Schools as Hundreds Face Relocation
By Aneli Fura
Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp is currently in the Zambezi Region to evaluate the impact of flooding on schools and oversee relocation plans for affected learners and staff.
During a visit to Lusese Combined School, it was confirmed that the facility will serve as a relocation centre for learners from Muzii Combined School and Mpukano Primary School. Authorities expect 339 learners to be moved, accompanied by 20 teachers, 11 cooks, and 22 parents who have volunteered to assist with supervision.
In a separate arrangement, 180 learners from Nankutwe Combined School are set to be relocated to Schuckmansburg Combined School, together with 11 teachers and four cooks. However, no parents have yet committed to relocating with the learners to provide additional support.
Bukalo circuit education inspector Namasiku Limbo briefed the minister on the preparations, noting that both relocation centres are facing challenges, including shortages of tents, limited water supply, and inadequate sanitation facilities.
Despite these constraints, officials remain optimistic that the outstanding issues will be addressed within a week, paving the way for relocations to take place during the upcoming Easter break.
Steenkamp is also expected to visit Nankutwe Combined School and Namiyundu Primary School, which have become inaccessible by road due to flooding and can now only be reached by boat. Her visit will conclude at the relocation site at Schuckmansburg Combined School.
