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The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities says it is pursuing legal action against the Eastern Cape Education Department to reopen the Ikwezi Lokusa Special School in Mthatha.
On the reasons for taking the department to court, the NCPD cited the appointment of qualified and caring staff, getting renovations back on track, and the right to education.
In a statement issued on Monday, the council said learners at this special needs school have not been attending school since January despite promises by the Education Department to upgrade the facility.
"Conditions have deteriorated to such an extent that authorities have decided to close the school, denying Umtata's children with disabilities their right to an education," the statement reads.
It was previously reported that the Eastern Cape Department of Education promised R11,2 million for upgrades to the school but according to the NCPD, renovations lasted a short while before contractors downed tools due to non-payment.
Since the school's closure in January this year, learners have been offered places at schools in East London and Bizana however, no transport is provided by the department as these schools are more than 200 km from Mthatha.
"The children and their families are effectively excluded from the education system," says the council.
NCPD CEO Therina Wentzel said: "The situation at Ikwezi Lokusa School serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and, above all, compassion in our education system."
Algoa FM News reached out to the Eastern Cape Department of Education but no response was received at the time of publication.
