By REGINALD KANYANE
9 May 2025- The Harmony Gold in partnership with Ratlou Local Municipality, officially handed over a modern Computer Laboratory to Aaron Letsapa Primary School in Kraaipan village, a significant step towards enhancing educational opportunities for the local community.
Amongst guests in attendance of the official handing over was Harmony Gold management, District Director from the North West Department of Education, Eunice Lesepedi, accompanied by the Sub-District Manager, whilst the Ratlou Local Municipality mayor, Matlhomola Jafta, who was accompanied by the Senior Manager for Planning and Development, Nkhanidzeni Ntsieleni, the local councillor, Baile Mosepele and the former ward councillor, Fossy Moalusi.
The Ratlou Local Municipality mayor, Matlhomola Jafta said the mining giant has always been involved in contributing towards community empowerment and development, more especially youth and school learners as part of their Corporate Social Investment, termed Mining Communities Development.
Jafta said the newly-refurbished state-of-the-art facility is equipped with more than 20 computers, internet access and other essential technology that will enhance educational experience for learning and teaching at the school.
He further emphasized the importance of technology in education and the impact of the new lab in learning and teaching.
“This computer lab is a valuable asset not only to the school and learners, but to the community of Kraaipan and Ratlou in general. The computer lab is designed to support digital literacy and facilitate innovative teaching and learning methods.
“This project signifies what the vision and mission statement of Ratlou stands for, a performance-driven, participatory and orientated municipality. So, we plead with the community of Kraaipan to protect the facility against criminality and we applaud Harmony Gold for their contribution towards community development,” added Jafta.
Meanwhile, speaking during the event, the Regional General Manager for Harmony Gold, Raymond Ranta, indicated that the R1.5 million rand worth project, hired one contractor and had since created job opportunities for at least 13 local community members.
The Guardian 