93% of Pit Toilets in SA Schools Eradicated as DBE Nears Deadline

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has successfully eradicated 93% of identified pit toilets in South African public schools, marking a crucial step toward providing safe and dignified sanitation for all learners.

Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, confirmed this milestone under the Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative, emphasizing that the government remains committed to meeting President Cyril Ramaphosa’s target of eliminating all unsafe school toilets by 31 March 2025.

Government Pushes to Eliminate Remaining Pit Toilets

Despite financial constraints, Gwarube reaffirmed that the removal of dangerous sanitation infrastructure remains a “non-negotiable priority.” She credited the progress to collaboration between national and provincial education departments, private sector partners, and development agencies.

The DBE is now intensifying efforts to complete the final phase of the project, with Limpopo and the Eastern Cape still facing the most significant sanitation challenges. Gwarube has scheduled site visits to these provinces to monitor progress and engage with school leadership and communities.

“This visit will allow for first-hand monitoring of the final phase of implementation and direct engagement with communities, school leadership, and implementing agents to ensure that all remaining projects are completed as scheduled,” she said.

DA Acknowledges Progress, Pushes for Further Reforms

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed the achievement, with DA spokesperson on Basic Education, Delmaine Christians, hailing it as a step in the right direction.

“The DA celebrates the news announced in Parliament’s National Council of Provinces. 93% completion so far is demonstrable progress toward ensuring all schools have safe ablution facilities,” said Christians.

He stressed the importance of ongoing investment in early childhood development, literacy, numeracy, and STEM education to further improve learning outcomes in South Africa.

Final Push as 2025 Deadline Approaches

With just over a year left until the March 2025 deadline, the government has assured transparency by committing to regular updates on progress. While challenges such as budget limitations and rising construction costs persist, Gwarube remains adamant that no child should be forced to use unsafe sanitation facilities.

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