# Concerns Over Lack of Proper Sanitation at Ramaina A Phetlhu Secondary School
**Magogoe Village, Mahikeng** – Parents and community members have expressed their frustration and disappointment over the unsatisfactory sanitation facilities at Ramaina A Phetlhu Secondary School. Located in Mahikeng, North West Province, the school continues to rely on unsafe sanitation methods, including pit toilets, despite national promises to eradicate such facilities.
The National Education Department set a far-reaching deadline of March 31, 2025, to eliminate pit toilets across public schools in South Africa. This goal aims to improve the learning environment for students and ensure their dignity and health. However, the situation at Ramaina A Phetlhu Secondary School raises serious questions about the commitment of the provincial Education Department to meet this deadline.
Parents have voiced their concerns about the negative impact that inadequate sanitation facilities may have on their children’s health and education. “It is unacceptable that our children have to use these unsanitary toilets. This is not just a matter of comfort but also of health—a situation that could lead to infections and diseases,” lamented one concerned parent.
Statistics South Africa’s recent non-financial municipal census report has drawn attention to a troubling trend in the province. The report indicated an overall increase in bucket toilets in North West for the 2022/2023 financial year, contradicting efforts to eradicate outdated sanitation methods. This alarming increase raises broader concerns about the prioritization of sanitation in public education and municipal services.
At Ramaina A Phetlhu Secondary School, the continued reliance on unsafe facilities poses significant risks to students, particularly young girls who may face additional challenges related to their menstrual health. Access to adequate sanitation is essential not only for the dignity of all learners but also for their ability to focus and perform well academically.
In response to these growing concerns, the North West provincial Education Department has been urged to take immediate action. Parents and community leaders are calling for urgent repairs and upgrades to the existing facilities, as well as a transparent timeline for the installation of proper sanitation solutions.
Education is a fundamental right in South Africa, and ensuring a safe and clean environment for students is an essential part of that right. As the deadline set by the National Education Department approaches, parents and stakeholders are left questioning whether the provincial government has the will and capacity to make meaningful changes.
Experts point out that sustainable sanitation practices not only contribute to the well-being of students but also foster a more conducive learning environment, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes.
As the community of Magogoe village looks towards the future, the hope remains that swift actions will be taken to ensure that Ramaina A Phetlhu Secondary School—and all schools in the province—are equipped with the necessary sanitation infrastructure to support the health and education of every learner.
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