MTHATHA– The United Democratic Movement (UDM) President General Bantu Holomisa has called on learners, teachers and the broader community to uphold discipline, integrity and accountability in education. He was speaking at the official re-opening of Thembelani Primary School in Ncambele Administrative Area in Mthatha on 3rd October 2025.
Established in 1998, Thembelani Primary began humbly in local households with just two teachers and later expanded into community-built mud classrooms. Despite years of operating in harsh conditions leaking roofs, dusty floors and crumbling walls the school has persevered. Today, it caters to learners from Grade R to Grade 3, with three dedicated educators and 46 enrolled pupils.
Addressing attendees at the reopening, General Holomisa commended the community’s resilience and urged all stakeholders to protect the school’s future. “This is your treasure. Work hard, respect your teachers and set your sights high,” he told learners. “Your performance and discipline are the building blocks of South Africa’s future.”
General also voiced concern over the historical closure of teacher training colleges and called for renewed dignity and respect for the teaching profession. “You are not just teaching lessons you are shaping lives. Honour the trust placed in you,” he told educators.
He further emphasized the importance of community involvement, reminding parents and residents that the success of Thembelani Primary rests in their hands. “This school is a shared responsibility. Protect it, support it and let it remain a place where children are nurtured and empowered,” he said.
Furthermore school’s principal, Vuyokazi Mayatula expressed gratitude to the UDM for their swift intervention earlier this year. “In April, UDM representatives visited while launching a branch. They were shocked by the poor condition of our classrooms and advised me to contact Mr. Holomisa,” she recalled. “Soon after, renovations were approved and major repairs were carried out. The school was painted, and damaged structures fixed. We are incredibly thankful.”
The upgrades included tiling, repairing windows and the roof and restoring the building’s overall integrity bringing a renewed sense of pride to both staff and community members.
In addition former principal Busisiwe Adonis also reflected on the school’s journey, recalling how the community initially built mud structures and gathered in prayer for a proper school. Their vision came to life when Thembelani Primary was allocated R30 million for new school buildings.
The reopening of the school now marks not only the restoration of infrastructure but a symbol of renewed hope and shared purpose for the Ncambele community.
Photographs: supplied
