23 Aug 2020

The maintenance and renovations of Tonota College of Education (TCE) which was awarded at cost of more than P127 000  is at 85 per cent completion.

Answering a question in Parliament on Thursday, the Assistant Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology, Mr Machana Shamukuni said the project experienced  delays due to contractor challenges in acquiring materials.

He said the that the projected commenced in May 2019 and was scheduled for completion in November 2019 but the contractor was given the extension until August 2020,

Mr Shamukuni said that the contractor had explained that the delays were due to failure to access materials and covid-19 lockdown.

He further said that the works originally awarded the contractor doing refurbishment of Academic building had been reduced.

Mr Shamukuni said the maintenance comprised of the academic building, kitchen, administration buildings and associated works.

He said that the maintenance and renovations commenced May 2019 and refurbishment of college hot water system was completed in November 2019.

The assistant minister  said the proposed refurbishment of 30 low cost staff, nine bachelor houses and farm was estimated at P11.8 million and refurbishment of eight  hostel blocks, covering major maintenance of student hostels, paved walkways, external electrical reticulation and sporting facilities was estimated at over P10.5 million.

Minister Shamukuni further said the refurbishment of 40 low cost staff houses and principal’s house with associated external works was estimated at more than P7 million.

“The ministry is working around the clock to ensure the speedy completion of the project.

 Assistant Minister Mr Shamukuni  was answering a question in Parliament from Tonota legislator Mr Pono Moatlhodi who asked if there were plans for maintainance as well as renovations of Tonota College Of Education since building was dilapidated. ENDs