KWAMHLANGA – A disjuncture between schools, governing bodies, and the community continues to have far-reaching consequences for education across the country.
Diminishing stakeholder support, weak relations, inadequate infrastructure, and limited learner support are among the key challenges affecting school performance.
On Thursday, May 8, Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, swapped her cozy and air-conditioned office at Sol Plaatjie House in Pretoria for the grounds of Mzimhlophe Secondary School in KwaMhlanga, Nkangala, to gain first-hand experience of the realities on the ground.
Her visit formed part of the department’s ongoing efforts to engage directly with school principals, management teams and governing bodies to strengthen collaboration and foster more impactful partnerships between schools and their communities.
Dr Mhaule engaged with district officials, learners, school management teams, school governing body representatives, as well as officials from the provincial education department.
Speaking to Highveld Chronicle, the department’s media and liaison officer, Terence Khala, said the objective is to ensure that all stakeholders work together towards achieving the department’s broader goals.
“The district has consistently been at risk of underperformance. The point of departure is to ensure that all schools receive adequate support – especially those underperforming – while also recognising schools that continue to do well,” said Khala.
He emphasised that the department is ready to offer the necessary support but stressed the need for proper problem diagnosis.
“Firstly, we must identify the correct problems. Secondly, we need to provide the right support to help schools reach their full potential,” he added.
Khala also referenced the Premier’s goal of achieving a 100% pass rate in the province, a vision entrusted to the MEC for Education.
“This visit aligns with that mandate – to ensure a consistent upward trajectory, not only in Mpumalanga but across the country, particularly in districts facing performance challenges.”
Dr Mhaule’s visits are expected to continue across the province, especially in areas where schools are struggling and require targeted intervention.
