The Mpumalanga MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Thulasizwe Thomo, has identified the practical handover of the Mkhondo Boarding School as his immediate priority.

He made this statement on June 12 during an oversight visit, part of the department’s final preparations to hand the facility over to the Mpumalanga Department of Education.

Thomo said that only minor works remain to ensure the school meets all required standards and specifications before it can be occupied.

“This is part of ensuring the school’s operational readiness, including the delivery and installation of learner support equipment, furniture and essential educational materials throughout the facility. This notable progression represents a significant development for both the department and the people of Mkhondo, particularly the learners who will benefit from this modern, state-of-the-art boarding school,” he said.

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According to Thomo, reaching this advanced stage demonstrates the department’s continued commitment to delivering quality, strategic infrastructure across the province.

Construction of the school began in 2019 with an initial budget of R200m and an estimated completion timeline of 18 months. However, the project has since received multiple budget injections – R140m in November 2023 and a further R60m in November 2024.

In his bid to accelerate the delivery of infrastructure projects throughout Mpumalanga, Thomo’s department has also completed the brand-new Thandukukhanya Library in Mkhondo and Yinhle Lentfo Primary School in Mshadza, Masoyi.

He urged the community to protect public infrastructure. “These modern facilities are more than just buildings; they’re a gateway to knowledge, opportunity, and lifelong learning for our youth, students and the entire community,” he said.