Bright future for KZN school
IN THE world of extreme make-overs, Dr JL Dube High School in KwaMashu, Durban, stands out.
The school went from dingy and dark to a state-of-the-art campus that also achieved its first 100% matric pass rate, thanks to an extreme facelift sponsored by the Cotton On Foundation.
This marks a new era of educational excellence for the youth of KwaMashu, particularly those from feeder school Ethekwini Primary, which the Cotton On Foundation overhauled in 2022.
The revamped Dr JL Dube High School now boasts an expansive total floor area of 4 312 square metres to nurture the holistic development of its 1 280 learners. The transformation included the construction of new facilities such as a sports hall, science laboratories, educational blocks, a teachers’ lounge, computer laboratories and several bathroom blocks. Furthermore, the school now features netball courts, cricket nets, an amphitheatre, a refurbished perimeter fence, and a rebuilt sports field. Accessibility features ease access for those with disabilities and a school kitchen adds to a comprehensive educational experience.
The project included 107 newly planted indigenous trees, which, together with almost 19 000 plants, contribute to an environmentally conscious campus. The school now also features a rooftop solar system and a 254 000-litre rainwater harvesting system, among others.
Nine vibrant murals adorn the school walls depicting themes of sportsmanship, education, nature, and community.
Artists who lent their creativity to the space include Mook Lion,
Sakhile Mhlongo, Gifford Duminy, Kev Ngwenya, Ntethelelo Mncwango, and Khulekani Mkhize, supported by Celimpilo L Mthembu, Hlobile Dube, Thandanani Xulu and Nduduzo Mahlaba.
The project spanned about three years. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in March 2022, Phase 1 in July 2023, followed by P hase 2’s completion at the end of February 2024. Cotton On Foundation’s total investment was R75 million, raised through the sale of Cotton On Foundation
products.
Nomzamo Mbatha, Cotton On Foundation’s ambassador, who is originally from KwaMashu, expressed her joy at witnessing the endeavour’s culmination.
“It has been an incredible journey to witness the progress of Dr JL Dube High School from 2022 to this momentous occasion,” she said.
Principal Sipho Magwaza said he was always concerned about the environment and after eight tries to source funding for a school make-over, he finally struck gold.
Grade 8 learner Sandiso Mazibuko said the learners had no words to express their joy and gratitude.
“This is so much better than where we all come from,” he said with tears in his eyes.