Nqobile Sithole
Premier Panyaza Lesufi has significantly committed to improving Gauteng’s infrastructure, particularly education and social development. The focus is on completing 28 new social infrastructure projects between 2024 and 2029.
“The Department of Infrastructure Development (DID) is committed to completing 28 new social infrastructure projects (facilities), including 18 new schools. Ten new social infrastructure projects, including three libraries and four multi-sports facilities, will also be delivered to the residents of Gauteng during the 7th Administration.
“Subsequently, DID will ensure upgrades and additions to 12 schools and four government buildings/facilities across the province. Furthermore, DID will renovate 69 social infrastructure facilities, including 56 schools, phase 1 at the Forensic Pathology in Diepkloof and 12 government buildings/facilities,” Premier Lesufi said.
The premier was delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) last night, 24 February 2025, at the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) in Tshwane.
Premier Lesufi reflected on government’s achievements and challenges over the past year and outlined the province’s priorities and service delivery plans for the year ahead.
Several schools in Gauteng are currently under construction or undergoing upgrades, with some expected to be completed in 2025.
However, the projects have been impacted by cash flow constraints faced by service providers.
Construction on the following schools commenced in 2024, with anticipated completion dates set for 2025:
- Semphato Secondary School is 92% complete,
- Dr WK du Plessis Lsen is currently under construction with 94% progress.
- The construction of Simunye Secondary School is at 66% progress.
- Nancefield Primary School’s progress is at 9%, and
- Rus-ter-vaal Primary School’s is at 21% progress.
The following schools were undergoing facility upgrades, with notable progress reported:
- Athlone Girls High School Project is currently 99% completed, with the school already using the space.
- 98% progress has been made at Ribane Laka Secondary School, and
- Refithlile Pele Primary School is 82% complete.
The department has commenced the planning and land identification process for one of four new planned hospital construction projects – the new Daveyton Hospital. Other planned new hospitals will be in Olievenhoutbosch, Diepsloot, and Orange Farm.
As per GDOH, the mandate for DID regarding the four new hospitals is limited to procuring suitable land parcels for them.
“DID, as the coordinator of the Expanded Public Works Programmes (EPWP) across all sectors and municipalities within the Gauteng Province, the department will enhance the employability of EPWP participants through initiatives such as the National Youth Service, health maintenance programme, and vacant land facilities maintenance.
“For EPWP Phase V, R7 billion will be dispensed in stipends to EPWP participants in 22 public bodies from 2024 to 2029,” the Premier added.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
