Minister hands over new toilets to Vhembe rural schools

LIMPOPO – The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, alongside the MEC for Education, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, officially handed over newly built flush pit toilets to three rural primary schools in Vhembe on Friday.

The beneficiaries of this infrastructure boost were Magauda, Lutande and Mauluma primary schools.

This handover forms part of the ongoing effort to provide safe and dignified sanitation for learners and teachers through the President’s Safe (Sanitation Appropriate for Education) initiative.

The minister highlighted that more than 3 000 schools were identified for sanitation upgrades under the programme, with the goal of completing the work by March 31 this year.

The urgency of addressing poor sanitation infrastructure gained national attention after the tragic 2014 death of Michael Komape, a Limpopo learner who fell into a pit toilet.

“This is not only about dignity but also about the safety of our children,” said Gwarube.

She emphasised that her department remains committed to eliminating pit toilets from schools across the country.

Although progress has been made, Gwarube noted that eradicating pit toilets is a continuous process.

“Even when we reach 100% eradication of the backlog, it doesn’t mean the work stops. Infrastructure needs will always emerge, and provinces must stay alert to ensure schools remain safe.”

She added that the approach goes beyond building toilets, incorporating access to proper washing facilities and improving children’s overall health.

“This is an integrated effort to uplift communities and provide safer learning environments.”

The MEC expressed her delight, particularly for rural schools.

“These ablution blocks are a blessing. Many learners used to relieve themselves in the bushes, which posed serious health risks. These new facilities are a big step forward for our schools,” she said.