07/08/2026
CLASSROOM RESTORATION PROJECT AT DIKGATHO JSS REACHES AN IMPRESSIVE 70% COMPLETION STAGE
In an unannounced visit this past week, the Mahalapye District Commissioner, Mr Ernest Phiri inspected the ongoing restoration of two classrooms at Dikgatho Junior Secondary School in Kudumatse generously donated by Matal Ventures and Larush.
The project, which began in response to the District Commissioner’s earlier appeal for assistance, is progressing well and is now approximately 70% complete.
Officials on site reported that bricklaying works have been finished, marking a major milestone in the restoration. Workers are preparing to move on to foundation, plastering and painting as the next phases. Once those are complete, the project will proceed with electrical installations, ceiling fitting, and the installation of window panes and doors.
Mr Phiri, who made the surprise visit to assess progress and reinforce the importance of timely delivery, praised the quality of the workmanship and the visible pace of progress. The visit also underscored the administration’s hands-on approach to ensuring that donor-funded initiatives meet community needs and standards.
Local labour and materials have been central to the project. Matal Ventures authorities confirmed that bricks were sourced locally and most of the workforce comes from the surrounding community, providing employment opportunities and strengthening local ownership of the project. The Project manager
said this approach has helped keep costs down while ensuring that the benefits of the donation reverberate through the local economy.
Matal Ventures and Larush donated the classrooms in direct response to the District Commissioner’s call for help to improve learning environments in the area. School representatives at the site expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, noting the urgent need for safe, functional classrooms to accommodate students.
With the major structural work completed, stakeholders are hopeful the remaining tasks will be completed without delay. The District Commissioner encouraged the project team and partners to maintain momentum.
The completed classrooms are expected to significantly improve learning conditions for pupils and stand as an example of successful collaboration between government, the private sector, and the community.
