Waterval High to be rebuilt, says MEC

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26-05-2026
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Limpopo Mirror
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Limpopo Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya announced the rebuilding of Waterval High School on 25 May, following the Department of Labour's closure of unsafe classrooms.

MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya (middle) visited Waterval Secondary School in Vhembe West on 25 May following the closure of unsafe classroom blocks, where the department confirmed plans for an 18-month reconstruction project amid ongoing concerns over delayed infrastructure development. Photo supplied.

New school infrastructure planned, 18-month project estimated

Limpopo Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya announced the rebuilding of Waterval High School during a visit to the school on 25 May.

Lerule-Ramakhanya’s visit followed the Department of Labour’s decision last week to close several classrooms at the school after finding the buildings unfit for occupation. The MEC’s visit on Monday, accompanied by senior officials and Head of Department Maropene Seshibe, was to assess safety conditions at the school.

The closure of classrooms followed Limpopo Mirror enquiries sent to the Labour Department last month. As a result, Grade 11 and 12 learners are now attending classes at Hlalelani Primary School, while Grades 8 to 10 are accommodated in six mobile classrooms provided by the Limpopo Department of Education.

According to the Limpopo Education Department’s 2022/23 procurement plan, R15m was allocated for the school’s reconstruction, with the Independent Development Trust (IDT) appointed as implementing agent. However, no construction took place, and only six mobile classrooms were provided in 2023. The school says this is insufficient for its 511 learners.

During the visit on Monday, officials said an infrastructure assessment team would conduct a detailed technical evaluation of the school buildings. The findings will be used to guide the construction of a new school. The department estimates that the rebuilding project could take about 18 months once planning and procurement processes are completed.

MEC Lerule-Ramakhanya told the school community that the department’s focus is now on a permanent solution rather than repairing the damaged structures.

“The long-term solution is the construction of new school infrastructure, with the shortest possible period for implementation estimated at 18 months,” she said, adding that the department would oversee the planning process to ensure the project moves forward.

“We are here to begin planning for new school infrastructure, and we will ensure this process is driven by the department. I am here to reinforce our commitment to the learners, educators and the community,” she said.

In the meantime, the Education Department has assured parents and educators that the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) will continue without interruption for learners who have been moved to Hlalelani Primary School.