Canyon Coal officially handed over a new classroom at Delpark Primary School in Delmas as part of its Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments aimed at supporting education and improving learning conditions in its host communities. The project is expected to help alleviate overcrowding among Grade R learners and create a more conducive environment for teaching and learning.

The classroom forms part of Canyon Coal's Social and Labour Plan commitments linked to the former Phalanndwa Colliery operation, located near Delmas. Phalanndwa commenced mining in 2013. While coal reserves at the operation have since been depleted and rehabilitation activities are underway, the mine continues to fulfil its commitments to host communities through projects such as this one.

Delpark Primary School previously relied on one permanent classroom and two mobile classrooms to accommodate 116 Grade R learners, resulting in overcrowded conditions that affected the learning experience of both learners and educators. The newly constructed classroom will provide additional space and help improve classroom conditions for the school's youngest learners.

The classroom was constructed by local contractor Kagiso Kopano Holdings. The facility is expected to serve learners for many years to come.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Xolile Mankayi, Group Social Licensing Manager at Canyon Coal, said the project reflects the company's commitment to supporting communities beyond its mining operations.

Representatives from government, the education sector, the municipality, school management, parents and community members attended the handover ceremony.

According to Kgotlelelo Samuel Khoza, Control Works Inspector in the Nkangala District Infrastructure Directorate of the Department of Education, the classroom will help address the shortage of Grade R facilities while creating a more conducive learning environment for young learners.

Michael Modise Magodielo, Acting Principal of Delpark Primary School, said the classroom would make a significant difference to both learners and educators. “Previously, we relied on mobile classrooms, which limited the learning environment we could provide to our Grade R learners. This facility creates a more suitable space for teaching and learning, allowing educators to make full use of teaching aids and resources. Most importantly, it will support the development of our learners during these critical foundation years. We are grateful for this investment in our school.”

The project was identified during Canyon Coal's Social and Labour Plan consultation process, during which stakeholders raised concerns about overcrowding at Delpark Primary School's Grade R facilities.