On 26 May 2023, The North West Department of Education also received a significant project from Impala Platinum Mine, to the value of R28 million for the community of Freedom Park in Rustenburg. The two schools, Platinum Village RR and Kutlwanong School for the Deaf, were officially handed over by Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe to the North West MEC for Education Viola Motsumi.
The handover includes the construction of two Grade RR classrooms, ablution facilities, sick bays, and two kitchens for Platinum Village RR to the value of R8.75 million. At the same time, Kutlwanong School for the Deaf received renovations to its classrooms, ablution facilities, administration block, computer room economic centre, school hall valued at R19 million, and sports facilities.
MEC Viola Motsumi says the social labour plans by Impala Platinum Mine have accelerated the service delivery by affording the department’s legacy project in Bojanala District.
"The period within which we find ourselves does not only require the government to act alone but to join hands with the private sector. This will ensure that the combination of our available resources, human capital, and otherwise impacts positively on the education of learners. Given that early childhood education is crucial in determining a child's future performance, the Impala Platinum Mine has invested in high-quality early childhood education initiatives that are advantageous for both children and families and society at large. As with the Impala mine, we firmly believe that children participating in early childhood education programs develop the emotional intelligence and resilience required to succeed.
"Our special schools are at the centre of the infrastructural projects we have identified for this financial year. Our learners in these schools are already vulnerable and deserve a conducive learning environment. As the North West Department of Education, we are continuing to build new schools and renovate those dilapidated schools across the province and are thankful for this great donation. This is one of the living proofs of public-private partnerships between our department and the local mines", said Motsumi.
MEC Motsumi adds that play and exploration should be the primary modes of instruction for young children to have a well-rounded education that integrates healthy behaviours into daily activities so that they become second nature and last far into adulthood.
