Dear Dr, Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane.

I am writing this email with a heavy heart, seeking guidance and assistance regarding my daughter’s education. My name is Hendrietta Mdiniso, and I am a single mother of five children. One of my children is enrolled at Skyline Combined School and was supposed to complete her final year there. However, she has been denied access to attend classes due to outstanding fees.

Initially, the school requested R6,000, which I managed to raise through donations, despite being charged for the months she did not attend (January and February). After that, they requested an additional R2,000, which I also managed to pay. Unfortunately, despite these payments, my daughter is still not allowed to return to school, as the school is now demanding another R2,000 for March. Since the month has just begun, I can only afford to make this payment at the end of the month, yet she remains excluded from her studies.

We have escalated this matter to the Department of Education, which is in communication with the school. We also attempted to transfer her to another school, but the Department advised us that this would not be possible at this stage. Today, we went to the school to plead for her to be allowed to resume her studies, but she was still denied entry.

It is heartbreaking to witness my child’s future being placed in jeopardy due to financial constraints. The emotional toll this is taking on her is immense, and I fear the long-term impact on her education and well-being. She was preparing for Grade 12, yet she has not set foot in school this year. With the growing risks faced by young girls, including teenage pregnancy and discouragement, I am deeply concerned about her future.

I am reaching out to seek your advice on what steps I can take next. I have explored all possible avenues, including seeking financial assistance through loans, but I am still struggling to meet the school’s demands. I would truly appreciate any guidance or support you can offer in ensuring that my daughter does not lose this critical academic year.

Thank you for taking the time to read my email. I look forward to your response.

Best regards,
Hendrietta Mdiniso