By Nothando Makhubela
Desperate mother Agatha Sehlangu is pleading with Hoërskool Patriot to re-admit her 17-year-old daughter Zanele Sehlangu.
Zanele missed a term of school last year after she was admitted to hospital in April due to TB.
Her mother said on Tuesday she was informed by Hoërskool Patriot, which is in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga that her daughter no longer had a place in the grade 10 class and she should look for another school. School resumes on Wednesday.
“It breaks my heart. My daughter did not choose to fall ill,” she said.
“My daughter started attending school at Hoërskool Patriot in grade 8, but after she was hospitalised in April during the second term for a month, the school said they can’t take her anymore.”
She said Zanele’s teacher suggested that since Zanele is still weak and very ill she should focus on her health.
“Zanele will not be able to catch up and she will have to repeat the same grade next year if there is space at the school,” said her mother.
Zanele only wanted her life to return to normal but will now be forced to find another school.
“I was so excited to go back to school and study like other learners. I was prepared to repeat the same grade, but now I am forced to find another school which is very painful. I don’t think I deserve this,” said Zanele, unable to hold back her tears.
Mpumalanga Department of Education spokesperson Gerald Sambo said: “As the department we are still looking into this matter with the school and circuit.”
Pictured above: Zanele Sehlangu
Image source: Nothando Makhubela
