LIMPOPO – The MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Basikopo Makamu, expressed his disappointment over the road closures by community members in Elim, which hindered access to the area, including Elim High School.
The closures coincided with his Mandela Month celebration visit, where he aimed to contribute positively to the local community.
Makamu’s visit to Elim High School included a donation of laptops and printers as part of his 67 minutes of community service, honouring Mandela Month.
Despite the challenges posed by the road closures, he addressed the leaders of the protest at the Njhakanjhaka Traditional Council, emphasising government’s commitment to listening to community grievances.
The protestors voiced concerns about the slow progress of the contractor working on the D4, citing the dusty conditions as a health hazard. They requested that the MEC prioritise providing a water tanker to mitigate the dust.
During his visit to Elim High School, Makamu spoke of the school’s impressive achievements. With an enrolment of over 2 000 learners and a teaching staff of 56, the school boasts a pass rate exceeding 82.7%, with 80% of graduates qualifying for bachelor’s degree programmes in 2023.
Makamu acknowledged the dedication of the teachers and the school’s performance despite limited resources.
“I am disappointed that when I arrived in Elim, the community had closed the roads, preventing access to the school, however, I am actively engaging with community leaders to address their concerns and will relay them to the MEC for Public Works, Roads, and Infrastructure, and to the premier,” he said.
“Elim High School is performing exceptionally well despite the challenges. We decided to donate 10 laptops and printers to ease the workload of the teachers, helping them continue their excellent work in educating our children. We are here during Mandela Month to do good for others, and we identified Elim High School as deserving of support.”
Principal Tinyiko Benard Nkatingi expressed gratitude for the donation.
“The MEC is a source of happiness and light for us, changing the past to better our future. Learners and teachers are delighted by this contribution.”
