Statement by Donald Grant, Minister of Education in the Western Cape

Western Cape Education Minister Donald Grant has today welcomed the fact that an agreement has been concluded with the Moravian Church of South Africa.

The WCED and the Church have agreed on the terms governing lease agreements on 14 properties owned by the Moravian Church, including Oranjekloof in Hout Bay.

"I am pleased that this matter has now been dealt with and that there will be no need for a costly court action", said Minister Grant.

"I am particularly pleased that the future of these schools has been secured for the next nine years. I would like to thank the President of the Morvavian Church, Reverend Mcubusi, for his willingness to also allow the WCED to place mobile classrooms at Oranjekloof which will help to alleviate overcrowding at the school."

Grant said that every effort will now be made to ensure that these units reach the school as soon as physically possible.

"The negotiations were undertaken in good faith and were amicably concluded in the best interests of the close to 5000 learners who are housed on properties owned by the Moravian Church," said Grant.

"It is my sincere wish that the situation at Oranjekloof stabilises and that learning can continue at the school free from any further distractions."

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or brcasey@pgwc.gov.za.

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