The North West Department of Education MEC, Viola Motsumi is optimistic that learners in Mafikeng schools will be able to return to school successfully on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, following the blockade of roads by taxi operators.

The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management confirmed to the Department of Education that learners will be able to attend school on the following day. The road blockages prevented many learners and teachers from reaching schools on Monday, 18 May 2026, resulting in disruptions to teaching and learning.

MEC Motsumi expressed concern about candidates who are currently writing the May/June examinations.

“On behalf of the Department, I am optimistic that teaching and learning will proceed normally from tomorrow. We have received confirmation that learners will be able to return to school tomorrow. As a Department, we are extremely concerned about the Second Chance Matric Programme candidates who are currently writing their May/June examinations.

“Now that we are in the middle of the academic year, this is a critical period. When a learner misses even a single day in class, it becomes a major setback. We appeal to all stakeholders involved in such actions to consider the future of our learners,” said MEC Motsumi.

Many schools in the Mafikeng area were unable to continue with teaching and learning on Monday, 18 May 2026.