South Africa: School Closes Amid "Foreigners First" Protest Fury

A school in Durban, South Africa, has closed after students and parents protested, claiming immigrant children were given unfair priority. The demonstrations turned violent, with reports of property damage and clashes. The protestors allege that South African pupils were being removed from classes to make space for foreign nationals. This claim has ignited long-standing tensions over resources and opportunity in the area. However, the provincial Department of Education strongly denies the accusation. Officials state there is no policy favoring immigrant learners. They blame the violence on outsiders who hijacked the student concerns. The department condemned the protests as based on false information. It warned that such actions promote division and xenophobia—a fear or dislike of people from other countries. Police are now monitoring the school to ensure safety. The department says learning will only resume when the environment is secure for all students and staff.