MEC proposes rates exemption for schools
Schools could use the money saved from paying rates to improve learning.
THE Durban School for the Hearing Impaired and all other schools could benefit if the plan to zero-rate schools succeeds, as that money can be used to improve learning by spending it on infrastructure and other critical essentials.
Also read: eThekwini to deal with those boycotting rates
This was said by the chairperson of the school’s governing body, Nokuthula Makhanya-Sibiya, after the provincial MEC for the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer, announced on January 15 that this year he will initiate engagements with relevant organisations for schools not to pay municipal rates.
Meyer said some organisations and groups are zero-rated within the municipalities, while schools have to pay.
“How can we say we are prioritising education in our province and our country if we are forced to spend a lot of money on paying rates? We are engaging with Salga (South African Local Government Association) and with Cogta (Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs), and we’ve already started engaging in cabinet to say that in our municipalities we need to zero rate, or at least reduce the rates on schools like this one, because we can’t be expected to be paying millions on trying to keep the lights on in a school like this, when that money could be going to actually improving the education of our children,” said Meyer.
Under the eThekwini Municipality, religious and sporting properties are some of those that are exempt from paying rates.
Meyer added that by removing the rate burden, learners and teachers can focus on learning.
Makhanya-Sibiya said this would be of tremendous help to the school. She said a large percentage of the school’s finances goes towards servicing the high rates bill.
“We know government things take a long time, but we would be happy if it eventually happens. A while ago, the government promised us solar panels to help reduce our electricity bill, but they never came. Being zero-rated would help us spend the money we spend on learners, staff, and on maintaining our infrastructure,” said Makhanya-Sibiya.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
