By Lwazi Raul
Mbombela - As from next week, contractors will be sent to 76 storm-damaged schools in the province, Mpumalanga Education MEC Reginah Mhaule has announced.
"We have seen the damage that happened in all the schools and will make sure that at the end of business on 13 February, contractors will be allocated to be on site to start processes," said Mhaule in a briefing on Wednesday.
"It really touches and pains the department when we see the conditions in which the kids are learning."
Mhaule said that persistent rains caused delays in the assessment of the damaged incurred.
She said repairs would include trusses and roof coverings, ceilings, insulation and paintwork, electrical fittings and cabling. Renovations at 40 schools would be managed through the Rapid Implementation Unit in the Premier's Office.
"The department wishes to express its appreciation to the stewardship of Premier David Mabuza and the provincial Treasury for ensuring that the required financial resources are availed for the execution of this task," Mhaule said.
She added that one of the damaged schools would have to be rebuilt from scratch at a cost of R71 million.
In the interim, schools with unused mobile classrooms will be asked to make them available to the damaged schools.
Mhaule said the department will consult with school governing bodies (SGBs) and principals to inform them of the project plans to ensure teaching and learning continue safely.
Some of the work is expected to be completed by the second week of March 2014. – SAnews.gov.za
