EMALAHLENI – Mgibe Primary School in Kwaarspruit has emerged from years of neglect with the unveiling of a brand-new school building. The handover ceremony on Wednesday, April 17, marked a turning point for the school and its community, with Africoal SA, Seriti, Mpumalanga Department of Education, the Manala Mgibe Tribe, and Emalahleni Local Municipality all joining in the celebration.
Located at Plot 91 Leeuwpoort in Siyanqoba Emalahleni, the new school stands as a symbol of community collaboration and commitment to quality education. For nearly 60 years, residents had been campaigning for a new facility to replace the old, dilapidated structure that had been vandalised over the years. This structure, with just seven classrooms, had been accommodating around 600 students, some of whom had to travel from neighbouring informal settlements. As a result, students were temporarily relocated to Bonginsimbi Combined School.
The Manala Mgibe Tribe’s donation of land and the efforts of various stakeholders have made the dream of a new school a reality. The school’s completion brings hope and promise to the community, addressing a longstanding need.
Nichol Van Der Merve of Africoal SA commented during the ceremony, “Despite the challenges, completing this school was essential. Our children are valuable, and they deserve this.”
Prince Thulani Mabena of the Manala Mgibe Rural Property Association expressed gratitude, highlighting the historical significance of the Mgibe name and the tribe’s displacement in 1913. “This school restores our hope, dignity, and pride. We believe it will be the foundation for future successes, possibly even producing a future president.”
The new school, constructed from containers, boasts 18 classrooms and can accommodate up to 540 learners, a significant upgrade from the previous facility.
