Department replies to questions about HA Jack Primary School
HIGHLANDS NORTH – Local councillor welcomes the response to fix the school in two months by GDE.
Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has said it is in the process of finalising the processes that will allow renovations at HA Jack Primary School in Highlands North.
The department replied to questions sent by the Democratic Alliance in the Legislature House in Johannesburg on 2 September.
Khume Ramulifho, DA shadow MEC for Education said that there are deteriorating conditions at the school which could possibly put the lives of the children in a danger.
It is understood that there are leaking roofs, dilapidated ceilings and cracks in the walls where there is water seepage as well as loose slates of tiles on the floor.
In its reply, the department said they are aware of the situation and plans are underway to remedy the situation, citing the costs as the only challenge.
According to the department, a works order detailing the needed maintenance works has been prepared in line with the recommendations of the condition assessment.
The department claims that an assessment was done earlier in March by the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (GDID). “These works could not be implemented at the time due to the fact that the estimated cost is above the financial threshold as per the current infrastructure roster.
“The department is currently in the process of finalising the procurement processes that will allow for the works to be undertaken. It is anticipated that the works will commence within the next two months.”
Ward 74 councillor David Fisher, who has an inspection report compiled by L&S Consulting which deals with structural and civil engineering, welcomed the reply from the department. “We are very excited to see that MEC [Panyaza] Lesufi states that the works will commence in the next two months.
“We feel that the safety of our learners is a priority and look forward to the remedial work being carried out with urgency,” said Fisher.
Details: David Fisher 082 822 6070.
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