Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed government’s commitment to improving the quality of education learners receive and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.
The Deputy President made the commitment during a visit to the historic Ohlange High School in Inanda, north of Durban, on Friday.
The school is closely associated with liberation icon and the founding President of the African National Congress, Dr John Langalibalele Dube, as well as former President Nelson Mandela, who cast his vote there during South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994.
Addressing learners, educators, school management and Dube’s family members, Mashatile highlighted the importance of education in transforming lives, strengthening communities and building a prosperous South Africa.
The Deputy President’s visit also celebrated the school’s rich historical legacy, while highlighting plans to strengthen its infrastructure through an investment of approximately R137.9 million.
Mashatile described Ohlange High School as more than an educational institution, noting it is a place where history lives, dreams are nurtured and generations of young South Africans are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
Earlier in the day, the Deputy President visited Dr Dube’s home in Inanda and paid his respects at his gravesite.
Reflecting on Dube’s legacy, the Deputy President said the education pioneer understood the transformative power of education and its ability to strengthen families, uplift communities and build the nation.
He also recalled Mandela’s historic visit to Dube’s gravesite after voting in 1994, when the former president declared: “I have come to report, Mr President, that South Africa is now free.”
“Those words serve as a source of inspiration, emphasising that freedom was achieved through sacrifice, courage, and perseverance.
“They underscore the obligation of every generation to further develop the foundation established by their predecessors,” the Deputy President said.
R137m infrastructure investment
As part of efforts to preserve the school’s legacy and prepare it for future generations, Mashatile highlighted an investment of approximately R137.9 million earmarked for infrastructure improvements at Ohlange High School.
The planned upgrades include improved classrooms, specialised workshops, better sanitation facilities, digital learning resources, enhanced security, sports facilities and sustainable energy solutions.
“These improvements will strengthen teaching and learning, ensuring that Ohlange remains a centre of excellence that empowers young people to realise their potential and make a meaningful contribution to our nation,” Mashatile said.
The investment also underscores the importance of providing learners and educators with an environment that supports academic achievement, skills development and personal growth.
Mashatile emphasised the school’s historical significance must go hand in hand with efforts to prepare learners for the demands and opportunities of the future.
Addressing learners directly, Mashatile encouraged them to remain focused on their education, believe in their abilities and pursue their ambitions regardless of their circumstances.
“When I look at you, I do not just see learners sitting in the school amphitheatre. I see future doctors, engineers, teachers, scientists, business owners, artists, innovators, and leaders of society. I see young people who will shape the future of South Africa.
“Some of you may already know what you want to become. Others may still be figuring it out. That is perfectly fine. What matters is that you continue to dream, continue to learn and continue to believe in yourselves. Never allow your circumstances to determine the size of your dreams,” the Deputy President said.
He also encouraged learners to attend classes with purpose, learn from their teachers, support their classmates and remain curious about the world around them.
He acknowledged that young people will encounter setbacks and disappointments along their educational journeys but urged them not to allow such challenges to define their futures, emphasising the importance of resilience, determination and willingness to continue learning and growing.
The Deputy President also offered words of encouragement to learners writing their National Senior Certificate examinations, urging them to trust their preparation, remain focused and give every paper their best effort.
“What matters equally is your determination, your character, your resilience and your willingness to keep learning and growing,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile also expressed appreciation to the educators at Ohlange High School for their dedication to teaching and their role in shaping the lives of young people.
“You help young people discover their talents, develop confidence and reach their potential. The achievements of these learners are a reflection of your dedication and commitment,” the Deputy President said.
He reiterated that government will continue working to improve access to quality education, skills development, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
“The future of South Africa depends on investing in its young people.
“The next chapter of our country's story is waiting to be written, and many of the people who will write it are sitting in this very amphitheatre today. Dream big. Work hard. Believe in yourselves. And never forget that your future is brighter than you may sometimes imagine,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za
