MEC Makupula opens R63 m school in Mooiplaas

The provision of school infrastructure to needy communities is gaining momentum in the Eastern Cape, as the education department continuously fulfils its promise to ensure that teaching and learning occur in conducive and better conditions.

Last week, another milestone was reached as the department handed over to the community of Ngxingxolo Location in Mooiplaas near East London, the R63 million worth Byletts Combined school. The occasion was graced by dignitaries and departmental stakeholders led by the education MEC Mandla Makupula received a warm welcome from the villagers and school community as ululations and drum-majorettes lined up in a guard of honour for the visitors.

Receiving these dignitaries, the school principal, Nomvuyiseko Dingiso thanked the department for such a huge task it has carried out despite the area having scare water. “I want to express my gratitude to the MEC and his horde for the invaluable support that has culminated to us having a school of this magnitude. Despite this, we still would like to urge the department to assist us with the fixing of the water pump as potable water is scare in this area,” pleaded Dingiso.

Since the school started in 1996 operating in a small building, before being moved to the 10 hectare piece of land where it is located now, it has produced graduates and one of them was Mr Pumzile Ludidi who helped took pictures with his cameral during the ceremony as part of contributing to the memorabilia.

The school to date boasts 630 learners from grade 8 to 12 and 504 of them are housed by the school’s hostels while 126 of them commute to the school, benefiting from the scholar transport. Notwithstanding the fact that the school is situated on a farm, thus far it has had commendable matric results that ranges between 80 to 100%.

One of the school’s current learners, the 15 year old grade ten Siyabonga Blom,  believes that espousing Christian values has helped it to earn its rightful place amongst the top performers provincially. "Since I arrived here in 2009, the school has moulded us, its learners, through inculcating values that help us lead a positive life. I am so excited with the new school as it has all that we learners require to study effectively", said Blom.

Addressing the 500 member throng during the ceremony, the education MEC, Mandla Makupula forewarn that education is the heritage that needs to be claimed by all school going age children. He also urged the community of Ngxingxolo to protect the school as it is theirs now.

“I take my hat off with gratitude for the Kamanga Consortium, the patriots who have inspired millions through donating the 10 hectare piece of land to make the construction of this school a success. I hope teachers and learners of this school will continue to work together in harmony and ensure that they better its results,” said Makupula.

Just after the unveiling of the plaque, members of the South African Police Service hoisted the South African flag while surrounded by a crowd of learners in their school uniform and community members in their traditional attire. As the event come to an end visitors were treated to a feast while learners performed different items on stage showcasing the talent housed by this school.