By REGINALD KANYANE
Learners at Oratile Semunza Disability Centre in Makhubung village, outside Mahikeng, received four specialized seating and Communication devices valued at R95 000. These devices that will provide essential support for learners with severe to profound intellectual impairments, was donated by the North West Department of Education.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said this is part of the department’s commitment in improving the lives of learners with disabilities through the Thuntsa Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme.
“Our learners with disabilities deserve the same opportunities to thrive in a safe and supportive learning environment. These specialized seating devices will make a significant difference in the lives of these learners, allowing them to participate more actively in their education.
“In a separate development, the North West Gambling Board (NWGB) under the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conversation, and Tourism (DEDECT), announced major renovations for two schools in Mahikeng,” she said.
Motsumi further said the two schools that will undergo phased renovations aimed at improving their infrastructure before winter are, Kgosi Kebalepile Secondary School in Montshioa Townsip and Setumo Secondary School in Majemantsho village.
She added that these initiatives by the North West Department of Education and the NWGB, demonstrate a shared commitment to providing learners with the resources and infrastructure they need to succeed.
“The Thuntsa Lerole Programme directly improves the lives of learners with disabilities, while the school renovations ensure a safe and comfortable learning environment for all learners during the colder months.
“The Kgosi Kebalepile Secondary School in Montshioa and Setumo Secondary School in Majemantsho, received commitments for major renovations from the agency of the Department of Economic Development called Gambling Board. Both schools will be fully renovated in different phases until they are completed,” she said.
NWGB CEO, Nareen Pillay said: “As winter approaches, it is crucial for our learners to have warm and conducive learning spaces. We will be replacing doors, windows, and roofs, and fixing ablution facilities based on the specific needs of each school. The exact cost of the renovations is yet to be determined according to each school’s identified needs.
“The social cluster also conducted an oversight inspection at DP Kgetleng Primary School in Mahikeng, which is undergoing extensive renovations encompassing all classrooms and the construction of a new block for additional classes and an administration block.”
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Recreation and Sports, donated sporting kits to Onkgopotse Tiro Technical School, Batswana Commercial School, Slurry Primary School, Phakisa Primary and Melorana Primary Schools.
The sports kits consist of volleyball quick set, balls, netballs, soccer balls, morabaraba board and tokens and kgati ropes.
The Guardian 