Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Roy Jankielsohn MPL and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL with replies to questions from the MEC here, here and here.
The Vogelontein School has been promised to the community since 2018, when controversial former Premier Ace Magashule announced that he would build the school during his State of the Province Address. At the time, R60 million was allocated to this project. Construction on the school was meant to be completed in 2021, but the project has never come close to completion. It has been subject to a R18,5 million bottomless money pit with nothing to show for it. A recent oversight visit has shown that what little construction took place has been abandoned and left in ruins by the contractors.
In March 2024, the MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure indicated that the estimated cost to rebuild the school would be a minimum of R118 million, with plans for construction to commence in May 2025. The Vogelfontein community will, unfortunately, have to wait even longer to see their children able to safely attend school in the area. Learners must travel long distances and use dangerous roads to attend school.
The DA has brought the matter to the Public Protector, which is currently investigating the construction of the school and compiling a report on their findings. The DA in the Free State will continue to pursue this matter in the Legislature through questions and in committees. We are committed to ensuring that the Vogelfontein community receives what they have been promised.