At least seven school infrastructure projects in Gauteng worth over R900-million have stalled, with “major shortcomings by contractors” being the most
cited reason for delays.
Four of these projects date back to 2021, and the completion of two is expected to be revised due to the termination of agreements with contractors.
The biggest project is the construction of the Dr WK Du Plessis School for Learners with Special Education Needs in Springs, which was supposed to be completed by June 30. The school is expected to accommodate 570 pupils from grades R to 12.
The over R254-million project was brought to a standstill because of cash flow problems and the non-payment of subcontractors, Education MEC, Matome Chiloane said in a document responding to Gauteng Legislature questions.
“The contractor performed poorly initially, but subsequently they have solicited plant and personnel capacitation… and is committed to concluding the full scope. Site progress meetings are scheduled every week,” the document reads.
The Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development has initiated the termination of the contractors for the Simunye Secondary School project and Inkululeko Yesizwe Primary School refurbishment, which both commenced in 2021.
“Contractors tasked with constructing the secondary school in Westonaria failed to complete the installation of ceilings, painting, floor covering, electrical installation, mechanical installation and ICT installation.”
The Inkululeko Yesizwe Primary School upgrades were affected by community and small business interruptions and stoppages, which are still not resolved.
The Vlakfontein-based school is expected to accommodate just over 1 200 pupils in grades 1 to 7; however, pupils are currently being taught in temporary structures.
“The contractor continued to demonstrate incapacity (cash flow issues), and notices were issued,” according to Chiloane.
The DA slammed the Gauteng government for “failing learners” this week, saying, “R135-million was allocated to the project, which remains incomplete.”
“Learners are being taught in old, dilapidated container classrooms. This is not an isolated case. Replies from the MEC show numerous other school projects across Gauteng that are stalled, years behind schedule and plagued by poor project management,” according to DA shadow education MEC Sergio Dos Santos.
While the upgrades at Soshanguve’s Semphato Combined Secondary are at 92% progress, construction has been halted due to an impasse in the area.
Last year, pupils and community members protested the poor conditions of the mobile classes.
Other schools that are still in limbo include the Thabotona Farm Primary School, the Refithlilepele Primary projects, as well as the Rust Ter Vaal Secondary School construction.
Gauteng Department of Public Works, which is responsible for the construction, had not yet commented at the time of going to press.
