Gauteng Premier Lesufi launches Ribane Laka Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation in Mamelodi East, Tshwane
By Prudence Motsila 
The 07 May 2025 saw Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi launch a newly upgraded 39-classroom state-of-the-art Ribane Laka School of Specialization in Mamelodi with focus on Automotive and Electronics industry-related skills, amid much fanfare from stakeholders, learners and teachers. The existing school, whose number of classrooms has significantly increased due to high demand following its top matriculation performances for more than a decade, now specialises in Mathematics, Science and ICT. The upgraded facility will enable more effective learning and teaching in digital innovation and provision of quality education.
The construction project was implemented by the Department of Infrastructure Department led by MEC Jacob Mamabolo who also handed over the practical completion and occupancy certificate and keys to MEC for Education Matome Chiloane. The audience were also full of praise when the Project Manager Mr. Obed Madzhini was complemented for his hard work and perseverance despite difficulties faced during the project construction phases. The department has worked with various community stakeholders in delivering the mega learning facility. The project had also created numerous job opportunities during its implementation.
The project scope included upgrading the school to meet the ICT compliance and the requirements for its areas of specialisation and vocations, as well as the construction of additional new classrooms, 2 combi courts, laboratories, nutrition centre, ablution blocks, as well as auxiliary facilities for power supply Generator room, parking bays, and the caretaker facility. The scope of works also included repairs and renovations to existing infrastructure at the school.
Premier Lesufi delivered a keynote address to the learners, parents and the community. "As government, we are providing education that makes economic sense. We have overhauled Ribane Laka School to be a school of Specialization with focus on Automotive and Electronics to ensure our education system in the township is relevant. This is the 36 School of Specialisation to be launched by the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) since 2016. I am very proud that we managed to deliver the state-of-the-art school, it is our vision to ensure a better future for our kids and building proper schools for them is our main goal," concluded Premier Lesufi. 
Other dignitaries at the official school opening included community leaders and luminaries such as veteran musician Mr. Don Laka, Municipal Councillors, School Governing Body members, as well as the Deputy Director: General for Education Infrastructure and Other Government Buildings Mr. Mmakwena Selepe, and other senior government officials.
The province pleaded with the school community, including learners, and parents, and the residents of Mamelodi to preserve and protect the school as it is a great investment asset for the future of many generations to come. The Premier also acknowledged private sector companies that have formed a partnership with education department to provide skills to learners who also showcased their newly gained skills in the various technical specialisation vocations.