Moyahabo Mabeba
Makgofe High School in the Moletjie area, east of Polokwane in Limpopo, has been the scene of highly unusual events of late.
Up to 40 learners at the school have suffered from collapses and have reportedly been behaving strangely – and nobody can explain why.
The situation got so severe that classes were suspended completely last Thursday, after parents stopped their children from going to the school.
At a community meeting held on Sunday, parents and the school governing body agreed to organise local pastors for a prayer session on Monday, in the hope that it would help the school return to normal.
In a video that has gone viral on social media, learners appear to collapse in the schoolyard before twisting around in apparent agony.
According to witnesses, learners claimed to see snakes that were trying to attack them.
Maria Mabotja said she decided to stop her two children who are in grade 10 and matric from going to school.
“We were very frightened when we were called to the school on Thursday. It was scary to see children rolling on the ground crying and saying things we couldn’t understand,” said Maria.
“The next day I decided I wouldn’t allow my children to go to school. They will remain at home until the situation returns to normal.”
The situation has plunged the community into chaos, with some villagers believing that an evil spirit has taken hold of the school.
Wayne Kubjane, an anti-crime community leader, said the incident has left villagers in a state of fear and anxiety.
“What happened was very scary because we don’t know what caused such behaviour among the learners,” he said.
Tidimalo Chuene, spokesperson for the Provincial Department of Education, confirmed that lessons had been suspended.
“It has been reported that 40 learners from different grades started displaying strange behaviour that doesn’t resemble physical illness. We are very concerned and advise people to avoid speculating on the cause. Our psycho-social team is looking into the matter.”
Image source: Capricorn FM
