No shoddy work warning for contractors repairing 60 storm-damaged schools

The North West Department of Education (DoE) has cautioned contractors that they are falling behind in repairing storm-damaged schools in the province. On September 5, 2026, 60 schools in the province were left damaged by strong winds. Dr Desbo Mohono, the MEC for education, has criticized contractors for not adhering to project deadlines.

He stressed the significance of better coordination, accountability, and sticking to project schedules for the welfare of learners and educators. Mohono announced the formation of a developers forum to track the progress of construction work. All emergency projects, including those damaged by storms, must be finished by the end of October 2026.

The department is also stepping up efforts to speed up the delivery of school infrastructure by working closely with the Departmental Infrastructure Units and contractors. Projects have been divided into three categories: contractor management, which focuses on storm damage and maintenance; new and replacement projects; and storm and emergency damage projects.

Mohono has threatened to terminate contracts of contractors who fail to meet deadlines. She also expressed concern over officials awarding multiple projects to single contractors, which could lead to corruption and a lack of employment opportunities for local people. Mohono emphasized the need to give local people a chance to participate, develop their skills, and improve their expertise.

She reiterated that the department will strengthen oversight of infrastructure projects and hold everyone responsible. Recently, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) North West Provincial Whip, Sylvia Sithole, advocated for the construction of climate-resilient infrastructure as part of future education planning.