School upgraded by Anglo colliery

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The project is scheduled for completion in February 2014 and will cater for the educational needs of the area's growing population.

The school is overcrowded and lacks facilities, including sports fields, laboratories and a library. Thermal Coal decided as part of its Social and Labour Plan to get involved when it was found that prefabricated classrooms are built with material containing asbestos which poses a health risk to the school's 1,134 learners.

The Department of Education will build new classrooms while the mine will be responsible for the construction of an administration block, fencing, ablution facilities, a kitchen and fully equipped science laboratory.

Locals were trained

Principal Bhekithemba Ndlala could not contain his delight when construction began. "We now walk tall and feel as though we are approaching the new South Africa, all because of Anglo American which is helping so many people."

Construction work commenced in July, and is being undertaken by 45 local people who have been trained and provided with the necessary skills that will make them employable after the project is completed.

Kriel colliery general manager PP de Wet said it was a straightforward decision to partner with the Department of Education on this project. "Through consultation with the people of Thubelihle we identified this project as one that would make a meaningful difference. Social development is a legislative requirement of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act and the Mining Charter. However, we do not believe in mere compliance, but going beyond compliance and making a sustainable difference."