Question NW3770 to the Minister of Basic Education
02 November 2015 - NW3770
Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Basic Education
Whether she has any plans in place for the eradication of pit toilets in all government schools, especially those in the (a) rural areas and (b) informal settlements; if not; why not, if so; what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Yes, the Department of Basic Education has plans for the eradication of pit toilets in all government schools. In terms of the Regulations Relating to Minimum Uniform Norms and Standards for Public School Infrastructure, all schools should be provided with acceptable basic services. Acceptable basic services include: waterborne sanitation, small-bore sewer reticulation; septic or conservancy tanks; Ventilated improved pit latrines and composting toilets; Municipal water supply; boreholes; rainwater harvesting (purified); and different forms of power supply. The scope and application of the regulations applies to all schools, including those in rural areas and informal settlements.