Gauteng completes major refurbishment of education and social infrastructure in Sedibeng and Tshwane
By Alfred Nhlapo
The school refurbishment and upgrading programme - a unique and innovative programme - by the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure to rehabilitate over 200 old, dilapidated townships schools in the province is yielding positive results. Over of 250 upgraded and added classrooms were included in the school infrastructure at the start of the 2024 schooling year.
Renovations of nine schools have been completed at   Krugerlaan LSEN Primary, Soshanguve Secondary, Setloana Primary, Hoesrkool Frikkie Meyer, LG Holele Secondary, Mulbarton Primary, Vereeniging Gymnasium, Laerskool Unifees, and Marotola Primary schools.
The Rehabilitation and Refurbishment (R&R) programme is focused on renovations and upgrading classrooms and the eradication of schools constructed from inappropriate materials such as asbestos, reduce the number of mobile classrooms and finally address over-crowding through additional classes. 
Furthermore, the programme has played a major role in significantly improving the learning conditions, eradicating inequality and restoring the dignity and pride of thousands of leaners in many township schools across the province. 
"The programme is transforming the school infrastructure in the province and promoting equality. The construction work undertaken is also extensive to make sure that the schools receive a new lease of life," said the Department of Infrastructure Development.
Former model C schools across the province such as Laerskool Unifees in Waterval, City of Tshwane, Vereeniging Gymnasium and Laerskool Frikkie Meyer in Vanderbijlpark have also benefited from the programme.
The Department has prioritised the completion of these projects on time, and within budget to allow learners speedy access to better and acceptable school infrastructure.
The programme is also creating job opportunities to many skilled and unskilled community members. The scope of work includes repairing of structural defects, improving water reticulation, the removal of asbestos contamination, demolition of unsafe classrooms, repair of damaged facilities, construction of school halls and administration blocks, repairing of new ablution facilities and installation of electrical fire protection systems.  
"Given the broad and comprehensive scope of work, once renovations are completed, a conducive environment for effective learning and teaching is immediately achieved," added the department.
Renovations are implemented in a phased approach to allow for effective learning and teaching to continue uninterrupted. According to the latest report by Equal Education, poor school infrastructure conditions are responsible for affecting the quality of teaching, as well as the Teacher' general attitude towards their jobs. This indirectly impacts the schooling experience of learners and learning outcomes.