​Staff Writer
The Gauteng Provincial Government, in collaboration with the National Treasury, has earmarked R2.5 billion for the construction of 18 new schools aimed at expanding educational facilities. This initiative represents a groundbreaking infrastructure project approved and financed through the National Treasury's Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI).
During the State of the Province address, Premier Panyaza Lesufi emphasized that quality public education is essential for empowering future generations. He stated that, "Our dedication to establishing a high-quality, inclusive education system already yields tangible, positive outcomes. Investments in township schools are proving effective. The disparity in National Senior Certificate (NSC) performance between township schools and former model C schools has significantly narrowed."
The Premier also recognized Musawenkosi Buthelezi, Gauteng's top NSC exam performer, who hails from Zimisele Secondary School, a township institution in Kwa-Thema. Buthelezi excelled beyond students from both public and independent schools taking the NSC.
"This accomplishment underscores the remarkable progress in education within these schools, where two-thirds of Gauteng's bachelor passes now originate. We commend Lufhereng Secondary School in Soweto, led by Sebonwang Mphahlele, for achieving a 100% pass rate in Matric, with 97% of students obtaining bachelor passes. This exemplifies excellence in township education. The Gauteng NSC pass rate for 2024 reached 88.41%, reflecting a 3.03% increase from the 2023 results. All 15 districts in the province have maintained pass rates above 80% for the sixth consecutive year, with three districts exceeding 90%, including Johannesburg West."
Additionally, the Premier welcomed the signing of the BELA Act by President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking a significant step forward in the transformation of basic education in South Africa.