Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi had a consultative engagement acting Superintendent-General, Deputy Director-Generals and the four District Directors in Rustenburg. This comes after her re-appointment to the department.
Motsumi further said she had a special meeting to discuss amongst others, strengthening the administration and management roles of Deputy Director-Generals and District Directors – monitoring implementation of the targets in the Annual Performance Plan (APP) and related expenditure.
She added that they also discussed how to strengthen support to schools to enhance learner performance.
“I will be having a meet and greet session across the department with the sole objective of improving the results. I will also conduct accountability sessions wherein departmental managers will be held accountable based on their performance.
“This accountability session is meant to highlight the challenges faced by the management responsible for each unit within the department and to bring on the amicable solutions. As the department, we believe that this meeting will improve the performance of all learners from Grade R-12, when the year comes to an end,” said Motsumi.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Mosumi during oversight visit/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handed over Ramochana Primary School and conducted an oversight visit at Chaneng Primary during the Thuntsa Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Program on Friday. Motsumi said this is a significant milestone for education in the province.
“The Ramochana Primary School was constructed to address the severe overcrowding at Paardekraal Primary School. The new school boasts a comprehensive range of facilities, including an administration block, three Grade R classrooms with a capacity of 105 learners, a dedicated play area, classrooms for Grades 1-7 accommodating up to 840 learners, a computer room, a science lab, and an NSNP (kitchen and dining hall).
“Currently, the school has an enrolment of 1,745 learners and is staffed by 45 dedicated educators and support personnel. We express our gratitude and commitment to the continued development of educational facilities in the region,” she said.
Motsumi further said the handover of Ramochana Primary School is a testament to the government’s dedication to providing quality education and infrastructure for the children. She added that this facility will not only alleviate overcrowding, but also provide a conducive learning environment that will foster academic excellence.
“These activities mark a pivotal achievement as the 6th administration draws closer and we are committed to ensuring that every child in our province has access to quality education and the necessary resources to succeed beyond the 6th administration.
“The event also included an oversight visit to Chaneng Primary School in Chaneng village, where the department is currently undertaking construction and renovations. The project, which is 85% complete, will provide additional classrooms and improve existing facilities for the 480 learners enrolled there,” said Motsumi.
She said the construction includes six new ordinary classrooms, two Grade R classrooms with a separate fenced play area, a new NSNP facility, a new guard house, and the refurbishment of existing face brick classrooms, administrative block, toilet facilities, change rooms, and combi courts.
“Additionally, I had an opportunity to attend the SASCE District Music competitions at Platinum Village Primary School, where 42 schools are participating. The three-day choir festival features various categories, including special schools, sextet, boys choir, Grades 5-7 (Western and African), Social Ills, Jingles, and Folklore, among others.
“The handover and the ongoing projects underscore the provincial government’s dedication to improving educational infrastructure and fostering an environment where learners can thrive both academically and culturally,” said Motsumi.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi announces new changes at Maano Secondary School/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she is proud to announce the official conversion of Maano Secondary School in Masutlhe II village, outside Mahikeng, to an Agricultural Focus School on 17 May 2024. Motsumi made this announcement during the second-last instalment of the Thuntsa Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery program led by the acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi.
She further said Maano Secondary School, previously a public ordinary school, was selected as one of seven Agricultural Focus Schools in Ngaka Modiri Molema in 2023, with the aim to equip learners with the skills and knowledge they need to participate in the agricultural economy and develop a love for farming.
Motsumi added that North West is an agrarian province and the establishment of agricultural schools is crucial to enforce these skills and love for agriculture amongst our learners.
“This will ensure a brighter future not only for our learners, but for the entire province’s agricultural sector. The school received a R2.5 million from the Maths, Science, and Technology Conditional Grant, to establish its agricultural production lines.
“Currently, the school boasts of a crop production, poultry production (including broilers, layers, free-range chickens, and egg housing), goat production, and plant production in the form of orchard,” said Motsumi.
She said the conversion of Maano Secondary School coincides with the distribution of National School Nutrition Program (NSNP) utensils to the school. Motsumi said other schools in the Ngaka Modiri Molema district that benefited from the NSNP, include Kebonang Secondary School, Kgosi Kebalepile Secondary School, St. Mary’s Special School and Motheo Thuto Secondary School.
“We also visited Boitsanape Technical School, which is currently refurbishing its school furniture. The school is additionally providing training to its General Assistants to help them further develop their skills.
“The department remains steadfast in providing its learners with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. By fostering a love for agriculture and equipping students with the necessary skills,” she said.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handing over the newly-built school/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, officially handed over the newly built Monnamere Primary School in Dinokana village, near Zeerust on Wednesday. Motsumi said the brand new school replaces an old structure.
She further said the new school boasts a modern brick-and-mortar design, offering a conducive learning environment for pupils.
Motsumi added that the new Monnamere Primary School, features 21 classrooms, 3 Grade R classrooms, an administration block, a science laboratory, a computer laboratory, a multipurpose hall, a tuck shop, a library, a guard house, covered walkways, a soccer field, combo courts and waterborne sanitation facilities.
“This includes a perimeter fence with an access gate, and ample parking. The total project budget amounted to R131.8 million, with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) serving as the implementing agent.
“The project commenced in 2021 following the handover of the site to the DBSA. We are proud to deliver this state-of-the-art facility to the Dinokana community. This school is testament to our commitment to providing quality education infrastructure in our province,” said Motsumi.
She said it is important to note that the project not only benefited the community with a new school, but also created much-needed employment opportunities. Motsumi said a total of 260 people were employed during the project construction phase, including SMMEs, youth and women.
“We also urge the community to take ownership of the school and call for active parental involvement to ensure the facility is well-maintained and fosters a productive learning environment for future generations,” she said.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handing over the school to the community/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said on the occasion of Workers’ Day celebration, her department does not revel only the contributions of the country’s labour force, but also marks a significant milestone in education.
Motsumi said this is marked by the handover of the newly-constructed Relebogile Primary School in Swartdam village, in Moretele Local Municipality on 1 May 2024. She further said this is a testament to the department’s commitment to provide quality education infrastructure.
“The previous state of Relebogile Primary School was dire, with a dilapidated structure that was not conducive for learning. Therefore, it is with great pleasure that we announce the completion of this new facility, which will accommodate 369 learners as of 6 May 2024.
“The new Relebogile Primary School boasts modern amenities, including an administration block, two Grade R classrooms, a playground, Grade 1-7 classrooms, a library, a media centre, a science lab, and a kitchen with a nutrition centre,” she said.
Motsumi added that it is important for community stewardship in safeguarding this invaluable asset. She implored the Moeka community to stand as guardians against vandalism, ensuring that the school remains a sanctuary for knowledge and growth for generations to come.
“As we celebrate Workers Day, let us also reflect on the significance of education in shaping the future workforce of our nation. As much as the school is for learning, it is also a sanctuary for our workforce, which is the teachers, principal, administrators, guards and all in sundry. They deserve decent conditions of working as employees and it is our unwavering commitment to provide accessible and quality education for all and safe workspaces for our teachers.
“To the community of Swartdam village, our leaners, your children will be occupying the school on 6 May 2024. My plea is for you to safeguard the school against vandalism,” said Motsumi.
Meanwhile, among those who witnessed the school handover, was the Moretele Local Municipality mayor, George Manyike.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi during Education Lekgotla/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said the Education Lekgotla that was held in Sun City Resort, Rustenburg, brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to discuss and strategize ways to enhance educational advancement in the communities.
Motsum said the gathering served as a platform for her department to engage with stakeholders in the business sector, urging them to collaborate closely in the department’s shared commitment to educational excellence.
“We are excited at the remarkable success of the Lekgotla. We have noted the overwhelming enthusiasm from stakeholders, many of whom demonstrated a keen willingness to pledge support towards educational initiatives.
“Today’s success at the Education Lekgotla, demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change. I am heartened by the eagerness of stakeholders to invest in our educational endeavours, and I look forward to the positive impact of our collective efforts,” she said.
Motsumi further said they will continue to ask for more stakeholders to join the wagon of taking an interest in the education of the children as a demonstration of the freedom they want to see realised going forward.
She added that, among those who graced the event was the Deputy Minister for Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, who emphasized the importance of improving inter-stakeholder collaboration.
Meanwhile, Mhaule said: “Our educational goals can only be attained through a unified approach, uniting educators, administrators, community leaders and industry experts to craft a cohesive basic educational strategy.
“This includes enabling us to adapt to new teaching methods, integrate technology in our classrooms and prepare our students for a world where change is the only constant.”
She said the DBE extends its gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions towards shaping the future of education in the nation with a commitment that fosters partnerships that transcend school fence boundaries.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handing over Borolelo Primary School project/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said the construction of the Borolelo Primary School project in Koster, will alleviate overcrowding in schools. Motsumi handed over the school worth R103 million to the community on Saturday as part of 30 years of democracy.
“The Borolelo Primary School boasts of modern facilities, including 21 classrooms for Grade 1-7 learners, an Early Childhood Development (ECD) block, an ICT-equipped lab, science lab for Grade R through 7, multipurpose room, ablution facilities, change rooms for both boys and girls, fully equipped NSNP kitchen, an administration block and a library among other facilities.
“Our department is committed to address the strain faced by towns grappling with school overcrowding. As a result of high rates of in-migration, this is realised with the handover of the newly constructed school,” she said.
Mosumi further said, as they celebrate 30 years since the dawn of democracy, the opening of Borelelo Primary School signifies a vital step towards securing a brighter future for our children. She added that they constructed the school in response to overcrowding at the existing Kgetleng Primary School.
“As the department, we understand nurturing young minds needs a conducive environment that allows learners to be free and empowered to reach their full potential. We cannot leave behind the upliftment of our communities through job prospects that come from these constructions.
“This is the true essence of the freedom we celebrate today – the freedom to learn, to grow, and to contribute meaningfully to our nation. The handover of Borolelo Primary School marks a significant milestone in the province’s education sector, solidifying the government’s resolve to create an environment, where every child has the chance to excel,” said Motsumi.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said her department is ready to administer the June exams, which start on 29 April 2024. Motsumi said to ensure a ‘smooth and fair’ process for all involved, the department has prepared 73 examination centres registered for the 2024 May/June examinations, including 39 NSC examination centres.
“The capturing of entries has been fully completed with any remaining entries. Additionally, all centres have been categorized into low, moderate, and high-risk categories, and a thorough risk profile of each examination centre has been completed.
“Furthermore, the storage of question papers has been carried out with utmost care, adhering strictly to criteria for evaluation and undergoing rigorous audits to ensure the security and integrity of the examination process,” she said.
Motsumi added that she has confirmed the readiness with parents and the education community at large. She said the May/June examination is an important milestone for the learners and they want to assure them and their parents that they have taken every measure to maintain the standards set in the October/November 2023 examinations.
“We are committed to providing a conducive environment for all learners to demonstrate their abilities and achieve success. We urge all learners to approach these examinations with confidence and determination, knowing that the department is dedicated to support them in every step of the way,” said Motsumi.
She said the department extends its best wishes to all learners undertaking these examinations, encouraging them to showcase their knowledge and skills with confidence and integrity.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi
By REGINALD KANYANE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said her department wishes to remind parents and legal guardians of the open window for learner registration for the 2025 academic year intake.
Motsumi said the registration period runs from 1 April until 30 September 2024.
“The registration period will operate on a first come, first served basis. We encourage parents to seize the opportunity. Timely learner registration is crucial for effective planning within our schools.
“It allows us to allocate resources efficiently and ensures we have adequate classrooms, furniture, and stationery for all learners come the 2025 academic year. I urge parents and guardians to avoid delays and register their children during this designated period,” she said.
Motsumi further said the department reminds parents and guardians to bring documents such as certified copy of learner’s birth certificate, Immunisation Card, most recent report card (if applicable) and transfer letter or card from previous school (if applicable) for registration.
She added that, for learners from outside South Africa, study visa or parents’ work permit, residence permit (or proof of application for non-citizens) and asylum seeker permit or certificate granting refugee status (if applicable) will be needed.
“While schools are required to maintain waiting lists, principals and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) encourage parents to submit applications before the deadline to avoid longer wait times. Schools will issue written acceptance or non-acceptance decisions to parents by 30 September 2024,” said Motsumi.
Picture: The Tosca Primary School, near Ganyesa torched/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said her department is dismayed by the burning of seven classrooms of Tosca Primary School in Tosca village, near Ganyesa. Motsumi said the incident allegedly took place on19 April 2024.
“It is reported that on 16 April 2024, the Department of Labour closed a block of three classrooms, alleging that the conditions were not in good standard for teaching and learning. Later the community came to close the entire school.
“It is further alleged that on the day of the incident around 11am, a group of people entered the school premises and burnt down seven classrooms, school furniture, school files, and textbooks and damaged the Grade R equipment,” she said.
Motsumi further said they condemn the incident in the strongest terms. She added that this is extremely sad and disturbing.
“It is disturbing that there are still communities in this province, who vent their anger by burning school properties. A school is a centre of knowledge for the community. Really, how do we expect learners to acquire information when we burn schools?
“Already learners have lost five days of learning and teaching. We have lost all the records of learners due to this horrible incident. As a department, we condemn this incident in the strongest terms and call for the immediate arrest of all those behind this fire,” said Motsumi.
She said on 21 April 2024, the department dispatched a team of officials led by the acting Superintendent General, Maropene Seshibe to meet with leaders in the area to discuss a possible solution. Motsumi said the department committed that mobile classrooms will be delivered on 22 April 2024, in order to assist with teaching and learning.
“A team of counsellors from the department has been put on standby to counsel learners and teachers as soon as teaching and learning resumes,” she said.
TaungDailyNews 