The Mpumalanga department of education says it aims to fix 83 schools that were damaged by heavy storms last year and use the help of parolees to repair broken furniture.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 back-to-school campaign at Phatfwa Secondary School in Mbombela on Monday, MEC Cathy Dlamini said: “Our records indicate that at least 83 schools were affected in this regard. A process to fix these has commenced and we request school governing bodies and communities to bear with us in instances where projects are yet to commence.”.
Dlamini said they were aware of schools that were in need of furniture.
Departmental spokesperson Gerald Sambo said they would use the skills of parolees to repair furniture at some schools.
“As part of their community service they will help in terms of fixing some broken furniture because they have the skills, which they learnt while in prison.
“The department has signed a memorandum of understanding with the department of correctional services for the refurbishment of school furniture. As part of their community service, the parolees also assist in the cleaning of schools and the establishment of vegetable and floor gardens,” he said.
SowetanLIVE
0 Comments