The Eastern Cape Department of Education has announced an R11.2 million project, meant to give Mthatha’s Ikhwezi Lokusa Special School a much-needed facelift.
This follows the introduction of the appointed contractor, Maliswana Trading, to the stakeholders on December 1 by the acting Head of Department, Dr Soyisile Nuku, at the school in Mthatha, OR Tambo Inland education district.
According to the department spokesperson, Malibongwe Mtima, the two-phase project started with the demolition of 318 brick beds by 20 locals employed as part of the first phase of the four-month project.
Furthermore, the contractor will also replace damaged doors, provide water reticulation and storm water drainage, replace all sanitary fittings, paint internal walls in both hostels and upgrade the electrical work in the hostels.
The employment of locals is expected to increase to 40 as the second phase of the project will be more labour intensive.
Local Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are also expected to benefit in both phases of the project.
Due to the current work underway, the school academic calendar is expected to start in February 2024, to accommodate both phases of the renovations.
The school, working with the district officials will develop a recovery plan to cover lost tuition time, Mtima added.
Eastern Cape Education MEC, Fundile Gade, called for support to ensure the smooth running of the project.
“I urge roleplayers to support and ensure the success of the project.
“Apart from job creation for locals, this project will guarantee dignity of our learners and the provision of education in a conducive teaching and learning environment,” said Gade.
