Building of new schools stall due to budget cuts
Although the space for learners in schools in the Waterberg is at a premium, no progress has yet been made on the construction of two schools that were planned for Extension 10 in Phagameng, Modimolle.
According to Mike Maringa, provincial spokesperson for the Department of Education, government construction projects were halted as austerity measures were put in place.
“The national treasury reverted the province’s infrastructure budget and no new construction is currently taking place,” he said.
He was hopeful that in the new financial year, with a new budget allocation, the building of the two schools will continue.
Die Pos reported last year that a spokesman from the department said they hoped to have the first phase of the schools completed by March this year. The planned primary and secondary schools are sorely needed as Phagameng High School, Solomon Mhlangu High School, and Hoërskool Nylstroom are filled to capacity. Currently, learners are transported by bus to other schools further away from their neighbourhood.
The Mmaphuthi Manamela Secondary School and David Scara Kutumela Primary School will be built on the same premises and will share sports fields. The secondary school is named after the mother of Buti Manamela, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, who grew up in Phagameng.
The schools will be able to accommodate 900 learners each.
With the estimated time of completion, without any construction interruptions or delays, at two years, the Waterberg district will have to face the desperate need for school placement for years to come. Although a spokesperson said that some phases can be completed earlier it will remain a challenge.
