Manenberg's private school looking for new site

The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee has recommended the sale of City-owned land in Manenberg for the development of a private school operated by a non-profit organisation, The Leadership College.

The school opened its doors in January 2010 and specialises in Maths and Science and provides tuition, stationery and uniforms to its 200 primary and high school pupils at no cost.

PICTURE: Facebook - The Leadership College

Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos, said the school’s management approached the City’s Property Transactions Department for assistance in identifying a suitable site, as it must vacate its current premises on privately-owned land.

‘’The department acted swiftly, identifying two well-positioned City-owned properties within one kilometre of the current school site. Recognising the importance of the sustainable, future service offering of the school and the impact it has in the community, the Mayoral Committee recommended that the property be disposed of at 10% of its market value, thereby contributing to the future viability of the school. It gives me great pride that the City is able to play a role in ensuring that The Leadership College can continue its invaluable work in Manenberg.’’

‘’The teachers, pupils, parents and everyone involved at The Leadership College continue to demonstrate the resilience and excellence that define their institution,’’ added Vos.

Western Cape Education MEC, David Maynier, welcomed the envisaged sale.

‘’This innovative step, discounting land for non-profit organisations delivering education, is a huge credit to Alderman James Vos and his team at the Property Transactions Department. We hope that this kind of transaction will create an incentive for more investment in independent schools to expand access to education in the Western Cape,’ saidMaynier.

Vos further emphasised the City’s commitment to unlocking opportunities through strategic property transactions.

‘’This transaction is a prime example of the City’s smart real estate approach, where public land is leveraged to drive positive socio-economic outcomes. By enabling projects like this, we are investing in education, community upliftment, and long-term growth for our city,’’ he said.

Following the Mayoral Committee recommendation, the report will be tabled for approval at the next Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, 27 March 2025.

 

Done By: Mitchum George