New prefab classrooms for struggling high school
FOLLOWING the handover of three prefabricated buildings to Silethukukhanya High School, staff and learners can breathe a little easier, no longer needing to be squashed into the insufficient number of classrooms previously available.
The school in Khula Village on the outskirts of St Lucia, is a nonfee paying school and has for years appealed to the uMkhanyakude District Department of Education for assistance.
The school has increased to 1 131 learners and desperately needed extra classroom space.
‘I felt it unfair that the children had to learn in such terrible conditions,’ said school Principal, Simon Madela.
‘I sought assistance from the department and it was a wonderful surprise when they responded positively.’
Three prefabricated buildings were last month officially handed over to the school after having been inspected and given the thumbs up by IDT Project Officer Sbonelo Mthembu.
‘The beautiful buildings were professionally built with quality material,’ said Madela.
‘On behalf of the school and governing body, I would like to extend my greatest appreciation to the department for taking the initiative in solving our problem.
‘Our teachers are now better equipped and can help our learners work towards academic excellence.
‘We would still like to appeal to local businesses to help us with general maintenance of the school, such as replacing broken window panes, painting and fixing the fence,’ said School Governing Body Treasurer, SS Ncube.
‘Maintenance is an ongoing issue and, with no fees coming in, we need as much help as possible.’