The DA in Limpopo calls for Education MEC, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, to be proactive and have regular water testing at schools within the province to ensure the safety of the drinking water for learners.
This follows a School Water Quality Testing Project by WaterCAN revealed that 43% of water samples tested from South African schools are unsafe for human consumption, 23% taps showed contamination, 73% water tanks showed bacterial contamination and 66% river sources showed bacterial contamination.
While the project only included a few schools nationwide, Lerule-Ramakhanya and her department must use it to be proactive and regularly test and monitor the water quality our learners receive. The department should also collaborate with municipalities to ensure the water infrastructure is well maintained and learners consistently receive clean water.
Limpopo has had issues around the water learners use or are exposed to in and around school premises and this resulted in a bilharzia outbreak last year that affected many learners.
In order to create a safe learning environment where learners have clean water, appropriate sanitation and can thrive academically, the regular monitoring of water quality is required.
The DA will continue to monitor the progress regarding this issue. We are committed to ensuring learners in Limpopo receive their education in a safe and dignified environment.
Media Enquiries
Jacques Smalle MPL
DA Limpopo Spokesperson on Education
083 392 3334
Moses Mariga
Researcher
0768219745