3 minute read
BUSHBUCKRIDGE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
Unveils Phulani Secondary School: A New Era for Education
In a major step towards improving education in rural communities, the Mpumalanga MEC for Education, Cathy Dlamini, officially handed over the newly renovated Phulani Secondary School in Bushbuckridge Local Municipality. This state-of-the-art facility is set to provide a supportive and inspiring learning environment for students and teachers, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing education across the province.
The renovations include 10 modern classrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, an administration office, a media center, a security guard room, and a combo sports court. These upgrades aim to foster a positive learning culture and improve the academic performance of learners. With these new resources, Phulani Secondary is positioned to help students reach their full potential while empowering teachers to deliver quality education.
This project demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality resources and opportunities, no matter where they are located."
- MEC Cathy Dlamini
During the handover ceremony, MEC Dlamini commended the Department of Public Works, Roads, and Transport for their work in completing the project, emphasizing the value of collaboration between departments. “The Department of Education is encouraged by the excellent work done by our sister department. This project demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality resources and opportunities, no matter where they are located. We strongly believe that improved school infrastructure directly impacts learners’ performance and motivation,” she said.
The renovation is part of a larger provincial effort to transform education. The Department of Education has allocated R80 million for the eradication of pit latrines in schools across Mpumalanga and R1.4 billion for constructing new schools and maintaining existing ones. These investments are intended to restore dignity to both learners and educators while ensuring safe, habitable spaces for teaching and learning.
MEC Dlamini also urged the community to protect the school from vandalism and criminal activities. She expressed disappointment over a break-in at the school just days before the official handover and called on the community to safeguard the future of the facility. “We cannot allow criminals to rob our children of their right to education. It is critical that we work together to keep these facilities safe and ensure they serve their intended purpose - to educate and uplift our children,” Dlamini stressed.
To mark the official opening, MEC Dlamini, along with Ehlanzeni District Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Terry Shabangu, and other dignitaries, planted a tree on the school grounds, symbolizing a new chapter of hope and progress for the community. Phulani Secondary School now stands as a beacon of hope, offering students and teachers a renewed opportunity to succeed in an improved learning environment.
