Back-to-school campaign boosts learning conditions in Jozini

Back-to-school campaign boosts learning conditions in Jozini

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The classrooms of Jozini came alive with renewed hope and possibility as the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, led a back-to-school campaign aimed at strengthening learning conditions in some of KwaZulu-Natal's most underserved communities.

The Deputy Minister visited Mjindi Secondary School in Mamfene and Ntenga and Nethezeka Primary Schools in Makhonyeni, where she delivered much-needed school resources and engaged directly with learners, educators, and school leadership. This followed a similar visit to five other schools in the province last week.

Joined by private sector partners Coca-Cola, Sappi and the Izimpande Foundation, alongside the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), the campaign delivered tangible support to the schools. A total of 200 pairs of school shoes were donated; 50 pairs to Mjindi Secondary School and 75 pairs each to Ntenga and Nethezeka Primary Schools; easing the daily burden faced by many learners.

Mjindi Secondary School also received approximately 300 study guides covering Life Sciences, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, along with curated hygiene and sanitary kits to support learner wellbeing and dignity.

Beyond the donations, Dr Gina used the visit to champion the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. She reaffirmed her commitment to hosting a career expo, to expose learners to STEM-related studies and career pathways, helping learners see education as a bridge to future opportunity.

The Deputy Minister also acknowledged the harsh realities confronting many rural schools, including inadequate infrastructure. These challenges, she said, highlight the urgent need for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector.

"I am once again calling on the private sector to partner with government to improve the living conditions of our people," said Dr Gina. "These are the very industries that will one day require the skills nurtured from school level."

uMkhanyakude District Director, Mr Thanduyise Motha, welcomed the visit and its positive impact on the school communities, while acknowledging that challenges remain.

"These visits encourage learners to believe in a successful future," said Mr Motha. "The Department of Basic Education is fully aware of the infrastructure backlogs and is actively working on solutions."

While challenges persist in some schools, Nethezeka Primary School presented a more positive picture. Principal, Mr Themba Mkhwanazi, shared that while the school has registered over 1 500 learners this year, it benefits from improved conditions, including access to piped water, made possible by support from the uMkhanyakude District Municipality.

The school also boasts a thriving vegetable and fruit garden, established on additional land generously donated by the local traditional authority, contributing to learner nutrition and food security. Most importantly, the school has Wi-Fi connectivity and additional science kits and lab equipment, which extend to Grade 12, thanks to Tongaat Hullet.

At Mjindi Secondary School, Principal Mr Thabani Mbuyazi painted a picture of a school determined to succeed against the odds. Despite muddy grounds during the rainy season, insufficient classrooms, and the absence of running water, the school achieved an impressive 97.8 percent Grade 12 pass rate last year.

"There is hope that we will reach a 100 percent pass rate this year, especially with the addition of new Mathematics and Life Sciences teachers," said Mr Mbuyazi, thanking the Deputy Minister for the timely intervention.

The back-to-school campaign continues on Tuesday, 10 February, when the Deputy Minister visits Mandla Mthethwa School of Excellence in Ndumo, Jozini, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen STEM education and improve learning conditions in rural communities.

ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

For more information, please contact Veronica Mohapeloa at 083 400 5750 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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