GOOD Statement by Thyrone Williams ,
GOOD Saldanha Bay Councillor and West Coast Regional Organiser
13 March 2025
ST HELENA BAY: RESIDENTS FRUSTRATED WITH WAIT FOR HIGH SCHOOL
The GOOD Party supports the community of St. Helena Bay in highlighting the need for a local High School. Residents say they are tired of vague promises from the Western Cape Government and the local Saldanha Bay Municipality, they are demanding clear project timelines.
The battle for a high school in St Helena Bay has been raging for some time. Despite having four primary schools, there is no High School. High schools in neighbouring areas are currently overcrowded and understaffed. Pupils are currently being transported by 14 buses to schools in Vredenburg, about 20km from St Helena Bay.
In August 2024, a community petition for a new high school was presented to the Western Cape Education Department’s regional office.
In September 2024, the Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier, responded to questions from GOOD Secretary-General Brett Herron, revealing that 732 learners are transported between St Helena Bay and Vredenburg, costing the province R13,830,408 per year.
The Saldanha Bay Municipality recently announced a R3 million development for a proposed school in Laingville, with the Mayor Andre Truter taking to Facebook to call it a “long-awaited victory for the community”. But no further plans have been communicated.
Community members will be engaging in a peaceful gathering on Saturday in Laingville to hand over a petition for the attention of David Maynier, the Western Cape Education MEC.
Media enquiries: media@forgood.org.za