EFF's Educational Initiatives: A Closer Look At Their Impact And Promises

Holifil

03 Apr, 2025

The Economic Freedom Fighters donated R100,000 to Gauteng’s top-performing public school in 2024, celebrating its achievements.
The EFF also pledged assistance to Relebogile Secondary School, one of the most challenged schools in the region.
While some South Africans appreciated the EFF's efforts, others questioned the status of Julius Malema’s promised school project.

The EFF donated R100,000 to Lufhereng Secondary, sparking questions about Julius Malema's long-standing promise to build a school. Image: Sharon Seretlo/Tim Robberts Source: Getty Images

In Gauteng, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are stepping up to address the challenges in education, making a real effort to give back to the community. This commitment to improving the educational landscape is something the EFF has been working on for years, and it’s gaining attention from people all over the country.

The EFF, often known as the Red Berets, has been on the ground, actively supporting schools through their Umntana Eskolweni Campaign. This campaign focuses on helping the most disadvantaged learners, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed. The party has a history of advocating for equal education for all, and they’ve been vocal about their stance. For instance, in August 2023, the EFF protested at Crowthorne Christian Academy over a learner being barred from class until she removed her dreadlocks. This action highlighted the party's commitment to fighting for equal rights in education.

EFF's Generous Donation to Lufhereng Secondary School

The EFF’s efforts have been acknowledged, particularly after they made a significant donation of R100,000 to Lufhereng Secondary School. Located in Soweto, this school has set a high standard as Gauteng’s top-performing public school in 2024. Despite not having a permanent building and operating out of mobile classrooms, Lufhereng Secondary managed to achieve a remarkable 100% matric pass rate, with an impressive 97% Bachelor pass rate in 2024. This donation, made by party leader Julius Malema on January 27, 2025, during an oversight visit, underscores the EFF's dedication to supporting education.

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Julius Malema visited Lufhereng Secondary, where he donated R100,000 to the school. Image: @EFFSouthAfrica Source: Twitter

Visiting Relebogile Secondary: Addressing the Challenges

The EFF didn’t stop at Lufhereng Secondary. They also extended their support to Relebogile Secondary School, which unfortunately ranks as one of Gauteng’s worst-performing schools. EFF Gauteng Chairperson Nkululeko Dunga highlighted the dire conditions at Relebogile, explaining that the school operates with only two functional water taps and lacks running water in its bathrooms. These conditions make it incredibly challenging for learners and staff to focus on education.

Dunga further noted that since 2023, the school has been operating out of mobile classrooms that suffer from poor ventilation and are prone to flooding. The EFF has vowed to provide essential resources to Relebogile, including pressure pumps, upgraded bathroom facilities, and air-conditioning units, among other necessities. This promise to transform the school reflects the party’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure where it's needed most.

Social Media Reactions: Applause and Accountability

On social media, the EFF’s actions have sparked a mix of reactions. While some users praised the EFF for their efforts, others have humorously pointed out that Julius Malema hasn’t yet delivered on his 2019 promise to build a school within five years. Former leader Helen Zille recently brought attention to this unfulfilled pledge, prompting a flurry of responses. Social media users voiced their opinions, with some appreciating the donations but others questioning the status of the promised school.

“They can’t build a school, so now they donate to a school🤣.” – @50jtaylor

“Their donations are much welcome. But where is the free private school they promised us?” – @debarnbb

“So, what happened to building a school? He just donates now?” – @mzansibranding1

“Where is the school we were promised? They must stop deflecting. Malema bought land of 300ha, claiming he will build a school, while I am sure this is a farm for him.” – @Bennetfor

“Don’t give money to a school. Build that school.” – @MariusMari87140

“Aren’t they meant to have built a top-performing school?” – @FanieSP

“100k? They promised to build a whole school and couldn’t.” – @barend44454

“That’s great news👏. Is he still going to build the school he promised?” – @AmogelangRSA3

“When will he build the school he promised more than five years ago?” – @handrivorster

Malema Celebrates Son's Educational Success

Briefly News reported that EFF president Julius Malema proudly celebrated his son’s matric success. Ratanang Malema, who attended St David’s Marist Inanda, graduated with a Bachelor’s pass, marking a significant achievement in his academic journey. Julius Malema took to social media to express his pride over his son’s success in Grade 12, highlighting the importance of education within his family and the broader community.

The EFF continues to navigate the complexities of educational reform, balancing the need for immediate support with the long-term vision of building a sustainable educational infrastructure. While the party faces scrutiny, their efforts remain a testament to their commitment to transforming South Africa’s education system for the better.