Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela visited the multi-million-rand, historic Lemana College outside Elim on 9 April, raising fresh questions about the future of the long-delayed project and whether the site will finally be revived.
The college, established in 1906, was once a leading institution that produced prominent figures and played an important role in South Africa’s liberation history.
Today, however, the site stands abandoned, despite millions of rand having been spent on attempted renovations over more than a decade. During the visit, discussions again turned to what the college should become. Ramathuba proposed that the site be converted into a skills development centre.
“The idea is to create a space where young people, especially those who are unemployed after Grade 12, can receive practical training. This would also include those who already hold qualifications but are unable to find work,” she said.
The focus, according to stakeholders, should be on equipping young people with marketable skills that allow them to earn a living. There is agreement that the college should not return to being a traditional teacher training institution, but instead respond to current economic realities.
However, no firm commitment was made on when, or if, the college will reopen. Manamela said government must first assess what is feasible. “This includes considering the role of existing institutions such as the University of Venda and nearby TVET colleges, including Mashamba College, which already offer vocational programmes,” Manamela said.
The Premier’s spokesperson, Thilivhali Muavha, did not grant Limpopo Mirror an opportunity to pose questions to the Premier and minister on how the provincial government accounts for the millions already spent on the project, with little to show on site.
Questions will be sent to the provincial government. A follow-up report, including allegations around the selling of stands at the site, will follow.
Video: Thembi Siaga