Deputy President Paul Mashatile said about R137.9 million has been set aside to upgrade Ohlange High School in Inanda, north of Durban. He spoke during a visit to the school on Friday, according to SAnews.
Mashatile said the planned work includes better classrooms, special workshops and improved toilets and sanitation. He said the money would also pay for digital learning tools, better security, sports facilities and cleaner energy systems.
“These improvements will strengthen teaching and learning, ensuring that Ohlange remains a centre of excellence,” Mashatile said.
He told learners, teachers, school managers and members of the Dube family that government remains committed to improving the quality of education. He said government also wants to create more chances for young people to succeed.
The school has a long history. It is linked to Dr John Langalibalele Dube, the founding President of the African National Congress. Former President Nelson Mandela cast his vote there in South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994.
Earlier on Friday, Mashatile visited Dube’s home in Inanda. He also paid his respects at Dube’s grave.
Mashatile recalled that Mandela went to the same grave after voting in 1994. At the time, Mandela said: “I have come to report, Mr President, that South Africa is now free.”
“Those words serve as a source of inspiration, emphasising that freedom was achieved through sacrifice, courage, and perseverance,” Mashatile said.
He said Dube understood the power of education to make families stronger and to lift up communities. Mashatile said the school’s history must go together with efforts to prepare learners for the future.
Speaking to the learners directly, Mashatile asked them to stay focused on their studies and to believe in their own abilities. He told them to follow their goals no matter where they come from.
“When I look at you, I do not just see learners sitting in the school amphitheatre. I see future doctors, engineers, teachers, scientists, business owners, artists, innovators, and leaders of society,” he said.
“Never allow your circumstances to determine the size of your dreams,” the Deputy President added.
He urged learners to go to class with purpose, learn from their teachers and support their classmates. Mashatile said young people will face setbacks, but these should not decide their future.
He also had a message for learners writing their National Senior Certificate exams. He asked them to trust their preparation, stay focused and give every paper their best effort.
Mashatile thanked the teachers at Ohlange High School for their work. “You help young people discover their talents, develop confidence and reach their potential,” he said.
He said government will keep working to improve access to good education, skills training, business support and jobs. “The future of South Africa depends on investing in its young people,” Mashatile said.
Source: this article is based on reporting by SAnews.gov.za. Image: GCIS via SAnews.gov.za. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice News desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Kgomotso Maake covers news and politics for Tzaneen Voice. Kgomotso reports on government, Parliament, municipalities, courts, crime and service delivery across South Africa, with a close eye on how national decisions reach towns like Tzaneen and the wider Limpopo province. Stories are written in plain English and focus on the facts: who made the decision, what it means, and what happens next.