Lerato Mailoane
The dream to convert Ribane-Laka into a Science and ICT School of Specialisation (SoS) was finally realised on Wednesday when the newly refurbished school was unveiled in Mamelodi.
It is the 36th SoS launched by the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) since 2016. It will specialise in Maths, Science, and ICT, focusing on the Automotive and Electronic sectors. 
The school was rebuilt at a cost of R148 million. The facility features state-of-the-art technology, including advanced laboratories for scientific experiments, modern ICT infrastructure, and a multi-purpose auditorium.
These will allow learners to gain skills in electronics and the automotive sectors, equipping them from an early stage for the fourth industrial revolution and marking a new chapter for them.
Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, together with the MEC for Infrastructure Development and Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob 
Mamabolo and MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane unveiled the school.
In his keynote address, Premier Lesufi said the school earned its spot as the 36th school of specialisation due to its exceptional performance.
"We didn't choose Ribane-Laka; they chose themselves because, at one stage, they gave us 100% success. We said let's reward this school because it means they have commitment, dedication and purpose."
Lesufi said that schools of specialisation were launched three years ago with the goal of identifying and building on high-performing secondary schools. The SoS aims to address critical skills shortages in South Africa by offering a highly specialised curriculum.
"Today, we are launching education for purpose, where our children will not be taught things that will not assist them. Our children will not be taught things that will be irrelevant when they leave school," said Lesufi.
He said that the Ribane-Laka SoS is the future of education, as learners from this school will benefit from the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), Africa's first automotive city.
"When we introduced schools of specialisation, there were naysayers. Many people don't understand that when we fight for equal education, we need education that empowers and transforms our society.
"Never before has anyone thought that a Ford Ranger would be inside the school premises, not to boast but to teach our children how to repair it when it is broken. No one thought we could have an engine inside the school premises where our children can explain its meaning; where our children can explain to you how an engine functions," the Premier added.