Briefing Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education on Tuesday, Gwarube confirmed that 96 pit toilets have already been removed under the department’s longstanding effort to tackle school infrastructure backlogs dating back to 2018. According to the Minister, 139 projects from that audit remain unfinished.

“As we close off the last financial year, we’ve made progress by eradicating 96 pit toilets,” she said. “There are still 139 from the 2018 backlog that we are actively working to address. It’s important to note, however, that this number reflects that specific audit and doesn’t suggest pit toilets no longer exist elsewhere in the system.”

Gwarube admitted that the department had missed its earlier deadline but emphasised that efforts are continuing in earnest to close the gap. She also confirmed plans to conduct a new audit to capture the current state of sanitation in schools across the country.

While acknowledging the work still to be done, Gwarube reassured members of parliament that the department is committed to delivering safe and dignified sanitation facilities for all learners. “We will return to this committee once the remaining projects are completed and the new audit is ready,” she added.

The continued presence of pit toilets in schools, especially in rural provinces, has long been a source of concern among education advocates, who say it undermines learner safety and dignity. Several high-profile incidents in recent years have intensified pressure on the government to accelerate its response.

The department has reiterated its appeal for stronger collaboration between national and provincial authorities to ensure no child is left learning in unsafe conditions.

--ChannelAfrica--