Deputy Minister of Education, Madalitso Kambauwa-Wirima says the Ministry wants to prioritize renovation of old school blocks that are in dire state.

Wirima has made the remarks while responding to requests from Members of Parliament who want schools in their constituencies renovated.

She said her Ministry has noted with concern the number of schools in the country that are in dilapidated state and need renovations.

Wirima said for a long time the focus has been on construction of new learning blocks while ignoring existing structures.

She admitted the failure to maintain the old buildings has been mainly due to resource constraints even though the Ministry gets a lion’s share in the national budget.

Wirima said the Ministry will look into the matter with keen interest to address the situation which poses a threat to the life of teachers and learners.

“We want to sit down as a Ministry together with other stakeholders to see how the issue of renovating old school blocks can be prioritized”

While responding to requests Parliamentarians to construct girls’ hostels in community day secondary schools, the requests will be considered.

She said, moving forward the ministry will set standards for facilities to be put in schools before they become operational depending on the needs of the communities.