Picture: Newly-elected Provincial Representative Council of Learners/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
1 June 2026 – The North West Department of Education said it has successfully hosted the Provincial Launch of the Representative Council of Learners (RCL) from 29 to 31 May 2026 at Woodlands Country Lodge in Parys. The department said a total of 108 RCLs from the 18 Local Education Offices converged at the launch, together with the departmental officials to strengthen leadership development among learners and promote their active participation in school governance across the province.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said discussions during the launch focused on functionality of the RCLs in schools, strategies to safer schools, challenges faced by RCL at schools, discipline in schools and role of RCL in promoting school culture and vision. Motsumi said as the department, they congratulate the newly-elected executive committee of the 2026 Provincial RCL committee.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the learners who have been elected to the leadership of the Provincial RCL. I also want to encourage those who were not elected not to lose hope. Your opportunity will come.
“Some of you will be pursuing your studies at tertiary institutions next year, where you will have further opportunities to take on leadership roles and be elected to student structures. This is not the end of your journey; rather, it is the beginning of many new opportunities ahead,” she said.
Motsumi further said on behalf of the department, she would like to confirm that this committee will receive their full support at all levels of management. She added that school principals should work closely with the RCLs in their respective schools.
“The future of this country rests in the hands of these young people. Therefore, we must mentor and guide them effectively so that they can succeed in their responsibilities and leadership roles.
“All RCL members from the various schools have been encouraged to share their experiences and insights with learners in their respective schools,” said Motsumi.
Meanwhile, the newly-elected President of North West Representative Council of Learners, Angelina Mokoena expressed that her committee will pay more attention to the special schools and the infrastructure in school, amongst others.
“My plan for this term is to focus on special schools. I will ensure that learners with special needs receive all the resources and support they require.
“The committee will also prioritize improving school infrastructure, but our immediate priority is to secure a meeting with the MEC to map out a way forward,” highlighted Mokoena.
The newly-elected Provincial RCL Executive
President, Angelina Mokoena (Ikatisong Secondary School in Letlhabile, Bojanala District)
Deputy President, Kago Sebetwane (Ramotshere Secondary School in Dinokana village, Ngaka Modiri Molema District)
Secretary, Rendani Msimang (Hoërskool Haartebees in Haartebees, Bojanala District)
Deputy Secretary, Classeng Enrique (Promosa Secondary School in Potchefstroom, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District)
Treasurer, Athulile Mhlongo (Hoërskool Orkney, Dr Kenneth Kaunda to District)
Public Relations Officer, Khaya Matuane Seabo Secondary School in Kokomeng village, Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District)
Hlomamo Loabile from Kismet Secondary School in Vryburg, Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District was elected as an additional member.
The Guardian 