Question NW1317 to the Minister of Basic Education
21 June 2018 - NW1317
Alberts, Mr ADW to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1)With reference to her reply to question 3870 on 6 December 2017, what (a) number of schools have been built by the Gauteng Department of Education since 1 June 2014 and (b) are the full details of the (i) number of schools in each year since 1 June 2014 and (ii) language of instruction in each specified school; (2) whether she has found that her department had achieved its goal with regard to the number of schools built as planned for in line with the budget allocated towards this purpose; if not, what are the detailed reasons why the target was not achieved; (3) whether the planned number of schools make adaquate provision for the demand in Gauteng; if not, what steps does her department intend to take to address the problem; (4) whether she is still unable to provide the requested information; if so, (a) why and (b) by what date will she provide the requested information?
Reply:
1. (a) & (b) (i) & (ii).
Find attached Annexure for the number of schools built since 2014/15 Financial Year and their full details, including their language of instruction.
2. The Gauteng Department of Education has a backlog in relation to the supply of new and replacement schools. This is perpetuated by the constant influx of learners into the province. A number of factors have had adverse impact on delivery of schools. These include but are not limited to: Budgetary constraints, under-performance by Contractors, Community disruptions and inclement weather.
3. The planned number of schools is not adequate to address overcrowding and the severe shortage of schools in the province. In an attempt to find an alternative solution, the Department is working with the Gauteng Infrastructure Fund Agency (GIFA) to explore alternative funding methods that will expedite the delivery of schools in the province.
4. The requested information has been provided.