09 June 2021

Dear Standing Committee on Appropriations,
I trust this finds you well.
It is with concern I am enquiring regarding the infrastructure budget being suspended for schools in the Eastern Cape - in a province where most schools allegedly fail to meet the norms and standards as set out under the South African Schools Act.

I am providing a link to an article, which gives what can only be an inaccurate reflection of the percentage of schools nationwide which have basic infrastructure requirements met.
https://www.businessinsider.co.za/99-of-public-schools-in-the-eastern-cape-arent-properly-fenced-and-pit-latrines-abound-2021-5
The column in the table for schools provided with water supply and electricity supply indicates 100% for all provinces.
SOURCE : https://pmg.org.za/committee-question/16110/

Please could you revert with an accurate reflection of water & electricity supply stats, including number of schools with pit latrines, and when this dire situation will be attended to. There has been much in the news over the years, with promises to ensure all pit toilets will be done away with, however it would seem appropriately effective actions have not been taken to ensure this happens. Surely it is not acceptable that government has moved the goalpost to 2030? How can this be considered acceptable for the children and teachers?

After researching it seems Section27 has been involved in court cases with Dept of Basic Education for 6 years already. Although this seems to relate to Limpopo province. They have noted with concern that only certain schools seem earmarked, with no response as to why.

• Is the response to Question NW807 (30 April 2021 to the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education) an accurate and true reflection?

• What is the status of pit latrine situation in the Eastern Cape, and other provinces that may well have these dangerous and undignified pit latrines as only option for pupils? Is there an accurate/current list and is there a plan with definitive dates to eradicate these latrines?

• Has government followed a Consequence Management process, with official suppliers deleted off official list (blacklisted) in the cases where tenders awarded and work was not carried out / or inferior work / or projects not completed?

Thank you for your time. I await your feedback.
Keep safe and healthy