WATER CRISIS FORCES EARLY DISMISSALS AT IVORY PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL AND OTHERS

The ongoing water supply challenges across KAE continue to disrupt learning, with schools like Ivory Park Primary School having to release learners early due to the lack of water.

In a letter dated 29 May 2025, the school’s principal, Ms. C.M. Ngwenya, confirmed that learners are released at 11:30 whenever there is no water on-site, citing health and hygiene concerns. This has become a regular occurrence as water throttling by Johannesburg Water affects the President Park Reservoir, which supplies Ivory Park, Kaalfontein, Allandale and Ebony Park.

The school highlighted that the ongoing issue has also impacted their ability to communicate through printed newsletters. As a result, they are urging all parents and guardians to stay updated via digital platforms such as:
• WhatsApp Channel
• Mzali App
• Ivory Park Primary School

Efforts are underway to restore a borehole system at the school that was vandalized during a break-in in November 2024. Once repaired, this system is expected to provide a backup water supply.

While the school assures parents of a catch-up plan to support learners, the situation highlights the broader impact of Johannesburg Water’s throttling program on local education. With water throttling set to continue, other schools in the area are also likely to face similar disruptions unless sustainable solutions are put in place.

KAE News will continue to monitor the situation and report on further developments affecting the community’s schools and learners.