By OBAKENG MAJE
The residents of Vaaltyn village, near Taung said, they welcome the North West Department of Education’s plans to construct a new state-of-art school in their area. A week ago, the residents embarked on a poor service delivery protest amongst others, demanding the new school.
One of the residents, Edwin Motshidi, alleged that the Ikhutseng Primary School is in deplorable condition and it might be hazardous to the learners. Motshidi said, however, they are grateful that the department addresses their educational and social needs at last.
“Schools play a crucial role in meeting the unique needs of the local community, especially in far-flung areas like Vaaltyn. They are more than just centres for learning because they are important for promoting social cohesion and preserving community identity.
“Since the department promised to build the school many years ago. It was disheartening to be told about rationalization due to the low number of learners after so many years of waiting,” he said.
Another resident, Keboneilwe Mampe (63) shared the same sentiments. Mampe said the Ikhutseng Primary School was built by a community using mud bricks. Mampe further said they have waited for a proper school for many years.
“We are finally happy that at least the department will build a new school. We continued to be ignored by the government, simply because we are in deep rural areas. Honestly, our government was supposed to put more focus in rural areas due to unique challenges experienced here.
“We often have overcrowding with limited resources. Also, geographical isolation can make it challenging to provide quality educational opportunities as many qualified educators do not want to come and teach here. So, the government must know that schools in rural areas are vital in nurturing education and fostering community.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said: “The department has made a commitment to build a new school in Vaaltyn. The school building is planned for the 2024/25 financial year. We can also highlight that budget allocation is not yet known as plans are unfolding.
“What we can confirm is that the school will comprise 12 classrooms, admin, NSNP kitchen and grade R classrooms. The department is aware of the state of the buildings, hence it planned to build a new school.”
Molokwane said the department intended to build a new school as renovations to Ikhutseng Primary School will not be a solution. He said they are waiting for the budget adjustment at the end of September 2024.
TaungDailyNews 