Education department disappoints

Parents in Limpopo are furious at the department of education for letting down their children who were to represent the province at the Herman Immelman stadium for the South African primary schools athletics championships last week.
In a letter from LIMSA, seen by Northern News, athletes across the province were specifically told to abide by the rules set by the department concerning transport to the venue. Arrangements included accommodation and attire. They were warned that if they fail to stick to the arrangements, it would jeopardise their participation in the event. “None of these arrangements were honoured [by the department]” said an angry parent who’s 9-year-old son was awaiting the bus for hours, only to find out that no transport were booked for the more than 100 athletes that were waiting for buses to depart at 7:00 last week Thursday. More athletes awaiting the buses en route were disappointed too.
Some parents decided at the last minute to transport their own children to the championships. A mother who chose not to be identified told Northern News she couldn’t allow her son’s hard work to go to waste due to non-commitment from the department. More disappointment followed, the promised athletics attire wasn't available and athletes had to borrow second hand or old clothes to represent their province. “If we knew that our kids were to be embarrassed, we would have arranged for sponsorships to ensure they get the treatment they deserve and to walk as proud ambassadors of the province,” she said.
No accommodation was arranged for the athletes either. Parents agreed that their children are discouraged and embarrassed  while adding they doubt they will participate in future championships arranged by the department.  
At time of going to print, the departmental spokesperson, Paena Galane, had not commented. The secretary of LIMSA, Peter Maluleke replied and said he as a parent is equally disappointed in the department. Maluleke added that LIMSA merely do submissions for the department and cannot be held accountable for the department’s failure.