Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
05 October 2024 | 19:45 CAT

The DA says the state of Nancefield Primary School in Eldorado Park and and Braamfischer Primary School in Roodepoort are denying children access to quality education. (Photo – Jacarandafm)

A recent press statement released by the Democratic Alliance (DA) has emphasized that the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (GDID) cannot complete key infrastructure projects on time and within budget. In the province, 17 schools are currently at various stages of completion.

The constant delays in completing the school project deprive our learners of a conducive environment for learning and teaching and disrupt their education and prospects.

The main reasons the GDID gives for unfinished projects include contractors performing poorly and having cash flow issues. Furthermore, the interruptions result from obstruction by what are known as business organizations.

According to the department, the following schools are still not completed:
1. Athlone Girls High School
2. Semphato Combined School
3. Dr WK Du Plessis LSEN
4. Inkululeko Ye Sizwe Primary School
5. Simunye Primary School
6. Ribane Laka Secondary School
7. Kwadedangendlala Secondary School
8. Thubelihle Intermediary School
9. Ahanang Intermediary School
10. Lakeside Primary School
11. Nancefield Primary School
12. Mogobeng Primary School
13. Rust Ter Vaal Secondary School
14. Hillcrest Primary School
15. Tsako Thabo Primary School
16. Refitlhile Pele Primary School
17. Goudwesskool LSEN

Speaking to Radio Islam International, DA Gauteng MPL Nico De Jager explained, “The sad thing is that many of these school projects were launched in 2016 and 2018, as well as a R125 million-rand project to build a new school in Nancefield, Eldorado Park.”

“The contract contracting regarding the school in Nancefield is an abandoned fight and the contract was terminated in 2020 and only now has the department indicated that they have appointed another contractor, bringing into light that the school is another six years behind,” De Jager highlights.

De Jager said the delays in completing these projects put learning at risk and led to budget overruns. This costs the taxpayer more money and takes away valuable funds needed for basic service delivery in the province.

“Completing these schools is not just a matter of convenience, it’s a matter of necessity. It’s critical to easing classroom overcrowding and reducing the distance some learners have to travel. With a new school year looming, the need for proper and quality infrastructure is more urgent than ever,” the DA said.

The DA called on the GDID to conduct a skills audit and ensure that only contractors who can complete the projects are appointed.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and DA Gauteng MPL Nico De Jager here.