The new grounds for the Nokuthula Centre and Special School are taking shape.
The school for 368 children aged from three to the early 20s with learning difficulties, has for years been operating under challenging conditions from abandoned factories in Marlboro. The large new site was acquired in Lyndhurst were the first phase of development has started with clearing and excavation.
The excited deputy principal Trevor Mkhonta said work started in March and is scheduled for completion in two-and-a-half years.
Mkhonta said the current location on 3rd Street is not suitable for learning, as the structure can’t be modified to suit all the children’s needs, it has no play grounds, has water supply issues and suffers repeated electricity theft.
He further expressed security concerns, this after a recent hijacking of a teacher’s vehicle which left her and colleagues traumatised. “Sometimes, children are also abused when they walked home from school,” he claimed.
He said when complete, it will be an event worth celebrating, but indicated a need for transport arrangements suitable for the children. Many of them are from Alex and walk a distance to the school. The new premises will have residences for only 40 boys and 40 girls.
Details: Nokuthula Centre and Special School 011 444 6443.
