[In Picture] On 17 January 2024- the first day of the 2024 school calendar as learner’s troop back to school, it is also the day that will see the entire Northern Cape -Cabinet deployed to various public schools across the province to ensure learning and teaching commences unabated.

As part of the government's back to school initiative, MEC Nomandla Bloem spent the morning at Langeberg High school and Noordkaap Laerskool in Olifantshoek to ensure these schools kick starts on a positive note. MEC Bloem's visit seeks to ensure that learning and teaching takes place on the first day of school and to take note of any education related challenges and address safety concerns that are a hindrance to learning and teaching ranging from resources, substance use, gangsterism, possession of dangerous weapons, acts of vandalism, bullying and abseentism in a momentum effort to create and promote a conducive learning environment.

MEC Bloem in her address encouraged learners to show commitment and dedication in their schoolwork and to realise the importance of education as it supports their developmental aspirations and to refrain from partaking in any wrongdoings, she also commended educators in ensuring excellence in teaching.

In conclusion, MEC Bloem pleaded with all stakeholders to have a shared responsibility and to work together towards a common goal of ensuring a safe haven for learners to learn and to protect the infrastructure of government.

MEC Bloem was accompanied by the Gamagara Mayor- Mr. Roman, JTG Councilor Motsoara and Councilor Jafta, DTSL- Ministry-Acting HOM- Ms. Molefi and JTG District staff, DOE circuit manager- Ms. Johannes, SAPS Brigadier Kopeledi, JTG CPF, Community in blue, SAPS members and in attendance was the Principal- Mr. Roestoff- Langeberg High school and Mr. Vries- Noordkaap Laerskool, Educators, JTG SADTU union representative- Mr. Matlala, Pastor Botha, SGB members and parents.