15 Jul 2020

Kgatleng District Council (KDC) has assisted all its 37 primary schools with supplies intended to prevent spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

KDC chairperson, Mr Daniel Molokwe, told a council meeting on July 13 that they used P1.5 million to install hand washing basins in the schools, erect water tanks in seven schools as well as supplies which included antibacterial hand soap, toilet gel, disposable aprons, sanitisers, mutton cloth, disposable masks, toilet paper and disposable latex gloves.

Mr Molokwe also told the meeting that the council had also desludged pit latrines in 14 primary schools.

He said 22 artisans were engaged in fitting hand wash basins, adding that primary schools were fumigated by eight companies.

Again, he indicated that installation of all hand washing basins was complete and the council was procuring warmers to provide hot water.

He added that maintenance of ablutions and classroom blocks had been done to bare minimum standards due to lack of funds.

“The council has since requested for additional funding from the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development in order to carry out comprehensive maintenance of our primary school toilet facilities and put additional hand wash basins,” he said.

Mr Molokwe appreciated individuals and companies that donated geysers, soap and sanitiser dispensers and encouraged others to come on board to help government in fighting COVID-19.

He, however, said inspectors had called for their increase in order to comply with COVID-19 regulations.

Meanwhile, Mr Molokwe said the council’s budget for 2020/21 was reduced by P8 851 000 to P152 805 000.

In his contribution to the debate, Councillor Joseph Sebina of Bokaa decried the deplorable status of teachers’ accommodation at Raditladi Primary School saying houses were invaded by bats.

Cllr Sebina further called for the unoccupied learners’ hostels in Molefi Senior Secondary School to be converted into apartments for teachers.

He also indicated that challenges from COVID-19 were a blessing in disguise for economic restructuring to empower Batswana who had been reduced to spectators in their country.

Cllr Basimanekhumo Hule of Modipane appealed to the council to quickly connect geysers donated to village’s primary school.

Cllr Hule said he was disturbed by information that interviews for cleaners at the school and Modipane kgotla would be held in Mochudi, saying that disadvantaged residents.

He also called on the district commissioner to recognise Mokatse as an independent village, which could have its kgotla and kgosi.

Makgophana councillor, Mr Toko Malwetse, suggested engagement of temporary teachers saying COVID-19 requirements were not being adhered to at Bogatsu Primary School since the Standard 7 class could not be divided.

Councillor for Boseja Central, Mr Molemane Maje said pit latrines should be abolished, especially in primary schools because they were dangerous to pupils. ENDS