Schweizer Reneke gets a R69m school construction project  


By OBAKENG MAJE 

North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, today did a sod-turning for the construction project of a new primary school valued at R69 million. Motsumi said the school will be constructed in Ipelegeng Township, near Schweizer-Reneke.

She further said her department has officially handed over a significant project management responsibility for the construction. 

Motsumi added that the new school project is slated to encompass essential facilities including 21 classrooms, an administrative block, a multi-purpose hall, a science lab, a kitchen, a sports field among other amenities, over a duration of 18 months.

“The initiative comes as a beacon of hope for the community, particularly addressing the pressing issue of overcrowded schools and the plight of learners who endure long distances to access education. 

“The project’s inception traces back to 2014, initiated by the late business person and contractor, Wandile Bozwana. However, following Bozwana’s passing, the department sought legal opinion to finish the project,” she said. 

Motsumi said the department’s intervention signifies a pivotal moment for the community, offering tangible relief to parents and learners burdened by lengthy commutes and overcrowded classes. She said the broader societal impact of the project, emphasizing its role in combating unemployment, particularly among the youth.

“It’s unacceptable that decades into democracy, we still grapple with youth unemployment and an uncertain future. This endeavour not only addresses immediate educational needs but also fosters economic empowerment and secures a brighter tomorrow for our youth. 

“This initiative follows the recent handover of the Serachero Primary School in Huhudi Township, near Vryburg, demonstrating our unwavering dedication to meeting the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and nurturing future generations,” said Motsumi.

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Newly-built Saruchera Primary School in Huhudi set to open its doors to the public


By OBAKENG MAJE

The acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi will officially open and handover a newly constructed Saruchera Primary School in Ext 25 in Huhudi Township, near Vryburg on Wednesday. Maloyi will be accompanied by the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, the department’s senior managers and the executives from the local and district municipalities.

Maloyi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said, the school will be opening its doors for learning for the first time tomorrow when schools are re-opening for the second term. Tatai further said the school is set to enroll about 1 380 learners from Grade R-6.

“These learners were previously attending at various schools around Huhudi Township and the official opening of this new school is set to bring the much-needed relief to the releasing schools as they were already overcrowded.

“This state-of-the-art primary school comprises amongst others, 24 classrooms, library, computer centre, Grade R facilities, multipurpose hall, toilets and changing rooms, and will employ 33 educators, including a principal and two deputy principals, majority of whom are from the releasing schools,” he said.

Tatai added that, the construction of Saruchera Primary School, was necessitated by the establishment of a new settlement and the building of RDP houses in Extension 25 and 28 in Huhudi, which resulted in overcrowding in the already existing schools around the township.

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North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi cracks the whip on ‘corrupt’ officials


By OBAKENG MAJE  

North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, has today announced the suspension of a school principal and a circuit manager in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District. Motsumi said these individuals have been served with precautionary suspension letters pending a thorough investigation into allegations of mismanagement of the departmental recruitment process within the Tshing Circuit. 

She further said the allegations have been brought to her attention by media reports, involve the potential soliciting or facilitating of monies in exchange for influence in the recruitment process. Motsumi added that her department takes all allegations of misconduct seriously. 

“We are committed to ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process that upholds the highest ethical standards. As such, an independent investigation I have tasked into these allegations have commenced. 

“The department will ensure a swift and thorough investigation to determine the veracity of these claims and in the main, I have taken steps to ensure minimal disruption to education at the affected school,” she said.

Motsumi said an acting principal has been appointed to maintain stability and leadership, while the investigation unfolds and in the same breath, she wish to protect the whistleblower to this effect. She said her department remains committed to providing quality education to all learners in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.

“The department will provide further updates on the investigation’s progress as information becomes available,” said Motsumi.

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North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi addresses safety and security in school through submit


By OBAKENG MAJE

North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, today officially opened the District School Safety Summit at Milner Technical High School in Klerksdorp. Motsumi said the summit comes amidst growing concerns about the safety and security of learners and educators in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, where schools have recently become hotspots for criminal activity and disruptive learner behaviour.

“We are deeply concerned by the reports of gangsterism, bullying, substance abuse and sexual misconduct within our schools in the district. These issues have created a climate of fear and intimidation, rendering our schools unsafe learning environments.

“The summit, which is also attended by representatives of the South African Police Services (SAPS), aims to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the safety challenges faced by schools in the district,” she said.

Motsumi further said today, they launched the School Governing Body (SGB) elections and they make a clarion call to parents and legal guardians to take the school governance initiative seriously. She added that, they are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including the SAPS, educators, learners, parents, local businesses, and community leaders, to create safe and secure learning environments for all.

“The summit will focus on a range of issues, including strengthening collaboration between schools, law enforcement agencies, and communities. Implementing effective safety and security measures in schools. Addressing the root causes of criminal and disruptive behavior among learners.

“Providing support services for learners who have been affected by violence or abuse. This initiative is to ensure that all schools in the province are safe and welcoming spaces, where learners can thrive,” said Motsumi.

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