In a bid to transform the educational landscape of KwaZulu-Natal, MEC Sipho Hlomuka committed to focusing on schools affected by natural disasters in his R66 billion budget for the 2025/26 fiscal year.

Although faced with a substantial allocation for salaries, the department is also committed to addressing infrastructure deficits that have long plagued schools in the region.

Hlomuka allocated R2,8 billion for infrastructure development, saying the department is actively working to repair schools that have been damaged by natural disasters such as storms, floods, and tornadoes.

“… We have successfully repaired a number of schools, among which are Nqobile Primary School in uThukela District, which is now 100% completed, Gloeckner Combined School, and Qhozo High School, also in uThukela District and 100% complete,” Hlomuka said. 

“In Zululand District, we have successfully completed the Zombode Primary School, Ngoza Primary School and Philibana Primary School, whilst Mhlabanisa Secondary School is at 80% construction. 

“In uMzinyathi District, we are at 76% construction at the Mkhonjane Primary School, whilst at Echwebeni Primary School in uMkhanyakude, the construction is currently at 95%.”

The department is also constructing 21 new schools. 

“In some instances, we have had to replace makeshift schools that were not conducive to teaching and learning. Some of the new schools that we are building are Vimbukhalo Primary School in uThukela District, which is now 96% complete, Cliffdale Secondary School in Pinetown District at 65%, Umzokhanyayo Secondary School in Harry Gwala at 45%, Sidingulwazi Primary in uThukela District at 56% and Zizamele Primary School in Harry Gwala District, which is at 60%,” Hlomuka said. 

“Additionally, there are 133 schools undergoing major refurbishment and rehabilitation across the province.”

Hlomuka also said the Cost of Compensation of Employees (COE) remains the major cost driver for the Department, accounting for close to 90% of this budget. 

“A total of R56 billion goes towards paying employee salaries,” Hlomuka said. 

DA KZN education spokesperson Sakhile Mngadi said: “While the centrality of educators is undisputed, the lack of growth in key areas like infrastructure, inclusive education and skills development is alarming,” Mngadi said. 

“KZN cannot sustain an education system where nearly all the budget is spent on salaries – without evidence of improved learning outcomes or better classroom conditions. KZN continues to suffer from overcrowded schools, decaying infrastructure, and dropout rates nearing 50% between Grades 10 and 12.”

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za

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