Ark Academy begins construction, but urgent support still needed

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07-05-2026
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Fourways Review
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Construction has officially started at Ark Academy’s new site in Diepsloot, but the school says community support remains critical to complete the project.

Ark Academy, an early childhood development (ECD) centre in Diepsloot Ext 5, has officially begun building its long-awaited permanent home.

This marks a major milestone for the school and the community it serves. However, despite the visible progress, the school says it urgently needs continued support to complete the structure and provide a safe, compliant learning environment for its learners.

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Mochaki Mothapo, founder and principal of the school, said they have started with building but stopped far from where they need to be.

“The most important thing right now is to complete the building so that these children can learn in a proper environment.”

She explained that Ark Academy focuses on supporting young children, many of whom would otherwise not have access to early education.

“The main reason for Ark Academy is to give each and every child an opportunity to have a foundation in education. Some children end up playing in the streets instead of being placed in schools or ECD centres. We remove them from the streets and prepare them for school.”

The new structure is being built using ecobricks, plastic-filled bottles used as an alternative building material, to reduce costs and involve the community. “We chose ecobricks because they are low cost and anyone can make them. Many of the ones we are using were made by learners from different schools as part of their life skills programmes.”

Mothapo explained that the new building needs to meet the department of education requirements, including safety, health, and infrastructure standards.

“We need to comply with the department of education in terms of safety, health, and proper structures. Without that, it becomes difficult for us to access the support we need to sustain the school.”

The school is calling on individuals, businesses, and organisations to assist in any way possible, including building materials, labour, or donations.

Financial support can be made through the BackAbuddy campaign: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/from-foundation-to-future-ark-academy-build-fund?