Gauteng does not have the expertise to efficiently manage infrastructure projects

5 March 2020

There are many case studies of failed infrastructure projects in Gauteng, but the Nokuthula School for learners with special needs is noteworthy because it is one of the most expensive schools built in the province.

At an estimated cost of R300 million, the construction was concluded in October 2017. The school, which was previously based in Marlboro, could not be used because an occupancy certificate had not been issued.

After accusing the DA-run City of Joburg for the delay in issuing the occupancy certificate, an investigation proved that the fault lay squarely on the shoulders of Gauteng’s Infrastructure Department for not submitting the required documentation.

More than two years later, the DA’s Education spokesperson has indicated that the final occupancy certificate has still not been issued. Despite that, on the basis of a temporary certificate, the Gauteng Education Department instructed educators and learners to move in, but only to occupy certain parts of the building.

As a result, the boarding school buildings are still not occupied. There are only 461 learners currently enrolled at the school, a number which should increase once the boarding facility comes online.

In addition, the educators and School Governing Body (SGB) members are extremely concerned that the risk of moving into a building without a final occupancy certificate rests on their shoulders. If something untoward were to happen, from a legal perspective, the Gauteng Education Department could absolve itself of culpability.

The handover of the facility by the Gauteng Infrastructure Department was handled unprofessionally. Educators were forced to figure out for themselves how to get generators to work, to set up smart-boards and to connect kitchen appliances. The smart-boards are currently not being used because the educators do not have laptops.

The swimming pool that was built was unsuitable for learners with cognitive and physical disabilities and the SGB and educators were required to enter into an arrangement with a private individual to heat the pool and to reduce its depth to make it safe.

When it rains, the school gets flooded, as do residential complexes on the periphery of the school. There is rising damp on the walls and in the main hall and the ceiling is collapsing. The educators have also complained about the poor state of the plumbing.

The promise of infrastructure led economic recovery by government is nothing but a cruel lie.

Issued by Alan Fuchs, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Infrastructure Development and Property Management, 5 March 2020