Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Anelia Smit and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Diphapang Mofokeng. See attached picture here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nketoana Local Municipality has formally submitted a memorandum and will pursue urgent written feedback within seven days regarding the funding and continuation of the stalled Tjheseho Community Learning Centre, to secure clarity for residents and ensure the project is brought back on track.
On Tuesday, 10 February, DA councillors Anelia Smit and Thinus Blignaut, together with DA activists led by Paulus Mkhwanzi, handed over a memorandum to Ms Matlawa (Head of the Centre), Mr Khambule (Deputy Head: Academics) and Mrs Sebeela (Deputy Head: Corporate Services and Chairperson of the Local Governing Committee).
The prolonged uncertainty surrounding this facility is denying young people access to critical skills development opportunities and delaying much-needed economic stimulation in the area.
In October 2018, then Minister of Higher Education, Naledi Pandor announced the centre during a formal event in Reitz as an agricultural skills development facility aimed at creating hope for training and job creation. On 30 April 2024, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Prof Blade Nzimande, officially launched the institution, which, upon completion, was intended to serve as a multi-disciplinary agricultural skills development centre.
The centre was developed to equip post-school youth and unemployed individuals with practical skills across sectors, including agriculture, business, transport, trade, manufacturing and community services. The tender closed on 29 March 2022, after which a contractor was appointed, and construction commenced.
In 2025, however, the project came to a standstill due to apparent funding shortages, even though it was not near completion. The public and subcontractors remain uncertain about the way forward.
We remain committed to protecting the interests of the community and prospective learners and will take further action once we receive responses.