Makgophe Primary School is located in the North West Province. The school serves 248 students from five surrounding villages – Mohlabe, Hlahlaganyane, Molorwe, Mantsho, and Diekamel Keil. The school has a small, dedicated staff of nine teachers, two cooks, one administrative assistant and one librarian.
Established in 2005 by Makgophe Mine, the school initially served as staff accommodation for the mine’s employees. As the local community grew the mine transformed the building into a school to support education in the area.
Makgophe Primary is classified as a no-fee school, making it a crucial resource for the community. Funding is primarily sourced from the government to support maintenance and operational expenses. The mine no longer contributes to its daily operations, it has donated the school buildings, providing a foundation for Makgophe’s infrastructure. The school is equipped with one library, one computer lab and three classroom blocks, alongside a small sports field with a grandstand.
The school’s programs are designed to support holistic development, including early childhood education, sports and recreation and computer literacy for both teachers and students. Due to its remote location, the school faces several challenges, particularly in accessing health and social worker services. The nearest clinic is 10 kms away and social workers only visit the school upon request due to the distance.
Introducing a feeding scheme has greatly benefited Makgophe Primary, providing 250 children with daily meals. The initiative has helped reduce absenteeism and dropouts, as students now have access to the nutrition they need to focus and participate fully in their education.
The school’s governing body plays an active role in managing the school’s affairs and ensuring compliance with government regulations.
RADA was introduced to Makgophe Primary School in September 2024 and recognized it as a place where we could provide meaningful support. With the help of sponsors, we are now contributing to the school’s feeding program, ensuring that vulnerable children receive the nutrition they need. RADA will continue to assess and assist with the needs of Makgophe Primary School, its staff, students and the broader community.
Wishlist:
- Soccer and netball kits (including balls, whistles, and training equipment)
- Refurbishment and painting of the sports field grandstand
- Regrading of the sports field
- Computer literacy training for teachers
- 10,000-liter or 5,000-liter water tanks
- Seeds or seedlings for gardening
