KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has handed over important education resources to schools in the Zululand District, demonstrating the province’s commitment to improving learning outcomes and strengthening education infrastructure.
Ntuli, together with Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka, visited uPhongolo Local Municipality on Thursday, 11 September 2025. During the visit, he officially opened new facilities and delivered resources aimed at addressing long-standing challenges in local schools.
At Siqalukubona Secondary School, the Premier unveiled a new science laboratory worth R810 000, designed to enhance the teaching of mathematics and science. The laboratory will equip learners with practical skills and prepare them for tertiary education and future careers in science, technology, and innovation.
Ntuli also handed over two mobile classrooms and a vehicle valued at R1 million to Siphosethu Special School. This support is expected to ease overcrowding, improve accessibility, and assist with mobility needs for learners with special educational requirements.
These initiatives follow the opening of two state-of-the-art schools in Newcastle last month, highlighting the provincial government’s ongoing investment in education despite financial challenges.
In his address, Ntuli emphasised that the government remains focused on delivering quality and inclusive education that inspires hope and ensures no learner is left behind.
“Every investment we make in education is an investment in the future of KwaZulu-Natal. These facilities are about more than bricks and mortar — they are about restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and building a province where every child, regardless of background, has a fair chance to succeed,” Ntuli said.
Operation Sukuma Sakhe engagements
As part of Operation Sukuma Sakhe under the District Development Model (DDM), the Premier also engaged with communities in the Ugu District Municipality.
On Wednesday, the programme began with a community dialogue at KwaDweshula village, where residents shared pressing issues affecting them. This dialogue offered citizens a chance to raise concerns directly with provincial leadership and contribute to finding solutions to local problems.
Ntuli visited community gardens that play a vital role in improving food security, reducing hunger, and enhancing household nutrition, while empowering communities through sustainable agriculture.
In Umzumbe Local Municipality, the Premier met with community safety structures to discuss crime prevention strategies and ways to strengthen cooperation between communities and law enforcement.
The day concluded with the main Operation Sukuma Sakhe event at Shibase Sports Field. The event brought together government leaders, community representatives, and stakeholders to enhance collaboration on service delivery, safety, and local development.
Ntuli reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to working directly with communities to address challenges and improve livelihoods.
“Operation Sukuma Sakhe continues to serve as a vital platform for inclusive governance, ensuring that the people of KwaZulu-Natal are active participants in shaping the future of their province,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
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