South Africa: Basic Education surpasses 93% milestone in eradicating pit toilets under Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative
Ms. Siviwe Gwarube, Minister of Basic Education, informed Parliament today that sanitation measures suitable for the Education (Safety) initiative have now successfully eliminated more than 93% of the pit toilets identified in public schools nationwide.
This important milestone marks a critical step in ensuring safe and dignified sanitation facilities are available to all learners. Despite serious financial restrictions in the basic education sector, the ministry has been firmly committed to eliminating unsafe hygiene in schools by March 31, 2025 until its commitment to reach the deadline set by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The progress made to date reflects the collaborative efforts of national and provincial education sectors, the private sector, and development partners who play a crucial role in rapidly tracking the delivery of safer toilets.
Despite great progress, the minister announced that DBE will step up efforts to ensure full compliance and she will conduct on-site visits in the Eastern Cape and Limpopo, the two provinces most affected by the heritage of unsafe sanitary infrastructure.
The Minister’s visit will allow first-hand monitoring of the final stages of implementation and direct involvement with the community, school leaders and implementation agents to ensure that all remaining projects are completed as planned.
The department acknowledges the ongoing challenges posed by budget constraints, infrastructure backlog and rising construction costs. However, eradicating pit toilet infrastructure backlog remains a non-negotiable priority and efforts are being made to ensure safe, sanitary school hygiene is available to every learner in South Africa.
As we approach the March 31 deadline, the ministry will continue to provide regular updates on progress and is committed to transparency and accountability to achieve this critical mission.
Apo Group is represented by the Basic Education Section: Republic of South Africa.
