GDE allocates R2.8bn to deal with school infrastructure challenges

JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Department of Education has allocated R2.8 billion to deal with challenges in school infrastructure.

It said the funds will address the widespread issue of overcrowding.

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Classrooms across the province continue to exceed their capacity despite promises of new schools and increased funding.

The department said half of the allocated R2 billion will be directed to the construction of new and replacement schools.

The department said its approach to overcrowding combines various infrastructure strategies, including the construction of new schools on available sites as well as brick-and-mortar self-build classroom projects within existing schools.

It said it will also focus on providing mobile classrooms where immediate relief is required.

“This approach will be assisting us to make sure that the overcrowding is attended to,” said spokesperson Steve Mabona.

Mabona has confirmed that mobile classrooms will be procured directly and not through monthly lease agreements to ensure cost-effectiveness.

He said the department is exploring a public-private partnership model to accelerate school infrastructure delivery in high-pressure areas.