By Karabo Ntanzi
The Independent Development Trust (IDT) has handed over Venus and Homevale Primary Schools to appointed contractors to replace prefabricated or pressed board classrooms with brick structures.
Construction will take place in phases and learners will be accommodated in mobile classes where necessary. The duration of the contract for each school is 12 months.
The meeting was attended by all stakeholders, including a Project Steering Committee consisting of the Ward Councilor, Clifford Benjamin Lewis, a Community Liaison Officer and Social Facilitator to represent the interests of the community.
IDT Project Manager, Luntu Ndonyela, facilitated the process and appealed to the parties to create a harmonious working environment and have regular meetings. He applauded Councilor Lewis for assisting with the approval of the building plans.
Community member Adam Sulliman raised concerns about the quality of workmanship and the use of sub-standard material. Ndonyela explained that the Bill of Quantity specifies the material, quantities, quality, equipment, fittings and fixtures to be used. He also indicated that contractors are required to submit samples for testing and keep certificates of approval regularly. Sulliman was told that warranties from manufacturers will also be used for quality assurance purposes.
Health and Safety Representative, Moses Moreko instructed all parties to adhere to safety regulations. He said that construction would take place with teachers and learners on the premises and assures that it will not interfere with the school activities.
“Temporary measures such as opening a separate gate for construction workers, erecting barricades, providing shelter for workers and protective clothing are some of the measures that will be taken to ensure a safe working environment,” added Moreko.
Architect, Alex Jere from UM Consultants, cited lack of space as a challenge when altering an existing structure, including the risk of drawing on top of the municipal infrastructure such as water pipes.
Homevale Primary School was built in 1967. All 33 temporary classrooms will be demolished and replaced with a brick structure and two ablution blocks. The kitchen, media room and facilities will be added at a later stage. The 47 year old Venus Primary School will boast with 20 new classrooms and a new administration block.
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