7 April 2009
Gauteng Department of Housing urban renewal programme continues to
prioritise and invest in the development of social infrastructure such as
schools, clinics and community centres to overcome the legacy of
underdevelopment.
Ekukhanyisweni Primary School through the Alexandra Renewal Project is one
of the schools that were demolished and rebuilt. The school was built in 1960
using asbestos roofing which posed a health hazard to learners. Over the years
the walls of the class rooms started falling apart due to wear and tear which
posed a danger to the safety of both staff and pupils as the asbestos dust was
filling the classrooms everyday. The asbestos school was finally demolished in
2005. Through this initiative the government has demonstrated its full
commitment to rejuvenate Alexandra Township.
There are also major efforts to provide educational support material for
school libraries. Through the Dynamics School Libraries initiative, most Alex
libraries now have hi-tech educational equipment and a host of library
equipment, like guillotines, hand scanners, shelves, counters, date stamps and
catalogue cards. Books and audio visual equipment have been supplied to 18
libraries. At Alexandra High School a computer centre has been set up, complete
with 25 computers and desks. At Kwabhekilanga High School, a technological
centre has been installed.
Since the start of the Alexandra Renewal Project (ARP), repairs and
renovations to 17 schools worth about R8 million have been completed. These
include painting and sealing roofs and upgrading electrical installations.
Issued by: Department of Housing, Gauteng Provincial Government
7 April 2009
Source: Department of Housing, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.housing.gpg.gov.za)
