Mbabane – Micro Projects under the Ministry of economic planning is set to the rehabilitation schools in Mayiwane Inkhundla that were destroyed by hail in early December.
Sibusiso Mbingo, Director of Micro Projects, revealed that the Ministry of education has set aside E30 Million that would be used to assist eight schools affected by the storm that ravaged sections of northern Hhohho. Six are elementary schools, while two are high schools.
Mbingo stated that an evaluation conducted following the tragedy found that 27 classrooms were destroyed. He stated that 10 of the damaged classrooms were severely damaged and would be entirely dismantled and rebuilt from scratch.
Mbingo also stated that the remaining classrooms would be renovated, including roof repairs and replacement of broken windows.
The contractors have guaranteed Micro Projects that classrooms requiring only roofing and minor repairs will be completed by February 20. The goal is to finish all work as quickly as possible in order to minimise teaching and learning disruptions when schools open for the year.
The Ministry of Education and Training Principal Secretary (PS) Naniki Mnisi thanked Microprojects’ for availing themselves for such work. Mnisi urged contractors to work quickly, emphasising that bad weather shouldn’t have a detrimental impact on students’ education.
She said classrooms had to be repaired on time so that learners continue to learn in a safe and conducive environment. Mnisi also warned contractors against the loss of government property during renovations, saying that the equipment removed from damaged classrooms should not “grow legs.” She added that the contractors ought to safeguard the items until they are collected by government stores.
Mayiwane Member of Parliament (MP) Sicelo Dlamini also weighed in on the support. The legislator also cautioned contractors that Mayiwane Inkhundla development officers would closely monitor the project. He also urged working under a sense of urgency to complete the construction on time.
Ministry of Education and Training officials were taken on a tour alongside Micro Projects leadership as well as the contractors early today. They visited the affected schools inspecting the extent of the reconstruction and renovation needed.
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