Torrential flooding in Limpopo impacting matriculants and pupils on the first day of school

Torrential flooding in Limpopo is preventing some matriculants in parts of the province from collecting their National Senior Certificate results.

The disruptions come as thousands of pupils across the province prepare for the start of their university academic year amid ongoing severe weather conditions.

The Mopani and Vhembe districts are among the worst affected with flooded roads and submerged bridges cutting off access to schools, clinics and entire communities.

The disruption comes as the South African Weather Service maintains an orange level nine warning for the province with heavy rain expected to continue for at least the next three days.

The ripple effect has been widespread with schools remaining shut on the first day of the academic year and matriculants unable to collect crucial documents needed for tertiary applications.

Former Giyani high school learner Hangwani Matosi said that the delay has caused uncertainty. 

"They closed the gate for us. I’m disappointed because I booked out my whole day to come collect my results. From here I won’t be able to go apply for college.”

The provincial COGTA department says damage assessments are underway as it seeks to secure emergency funding and assistance from national government.