By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
As part of government’s commitment to providing quality education and enhancing infrastructure in schools across the province, the MEC for Public Works Roads and Transport(DPWR&T)-Thulasizwe Thomo, visited Reggie Masuku Secondary School in Msukaligwa Local Municipality on Wednesday 15 January 2025.
Reggie Secondary School achieved an impressive 93.7% pass rate in the 2024 National Senior Certificate Examination.
The DPWR&T said, in a statement, that the visit was also in line with the Provincial Government’s annual Back to School Programme which sees public representatives being deployed to various schools to interact with learners and school management teams, as well as ensuring a successful reopening for the academic year.
In his engagement with the educators, learners, and school management to gauge the school’s readiness for the upcoming academic year, Thomo focused on assessing the infrastructure improvements, the availability of resources, as well as the environment for learning.
Thomo said the visit was not solely focused on reopening of the school, but it was also dedicated towards ensuring that every learner has access to a safe and conducive learning environment. The MEC extended words of motivation to the learners, urging them to place maximum focus on their studies in order to achieve the best results at the end of the year.
“ We recognise the challenges many schools face, and we are here to listen, support, and develop sustainable solutions together. The future belongs to those who prepare for it today. I urge all students to work hard, stay focused, and take ownership for their education,” said Thomo.
The MEC furthermore said the government continues to pursue the enhancement of schools facilities, including maintenance and renovations, as well as the importance of fostering collaboration between departments and community stakeholders in the quest to establish a holistic support system for learners.
The Department said further engagements will be held at various schools across Mpumalanga to continuously monitor and support their readiness, as part of the 2025 academic year reopening programme.
The MEC was accompanied by the Executive Mayor at Msukaligwa Local Municipality, Precious Nkosi and government officials, as well as various stakeholders.
