Note to editors: Please find the attached English soundbite by Sergio Isa Dos Santos MPL.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng demands answers from the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) following the abrupt closure of the Prototype Extension 4 Mohlakeng Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre in Randfontein. The ECD serves over 60 families in the area.
During a recent inspection by the DA Gauteng, it was found that the GDE left a handwritten notice on the school gate stating the centre is closed due to “compliance issues.” There are also allegations that it may be repurposed as a drug rehabilitation facility.
This centre has experienced challenges related to financial mismanagement and poor administration.
While Premier Panyaza Lesufi proudly touts the government’s efforts to improve compliance and registration for all ECD centres, he fails to mention that it is simultaneously shutting down these vital facilities without consulting beneficiaries.
The DA will urgently write to the Education MEC and HOD to demand an explanation about the closure of this ECD centre without consulting parents and the community. We also request a thorough investigation into allegations of financial mismanagement and non-payment of staff.
A Gauteng provincial government led by the DA would have kept this centre open to meet the educational needs of children in Mohlakeng.