Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi, MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane, and MEC for Infrastructure, Jacob Mamabolo photo supply
The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG), led by Premier Panyaza Lesufi,officially launched the Ribane-Laka Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation with a focus on Automotive & Electronics in Mamelodi East on Wednesday.
The launch was held in partnership with the MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane, and MEC for Infrastructure, Jacob Mamabolo.
This launch marks the 36th School of Specialisation (SoS) established by the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) since the inception of the flagship programme in 2016.
The Schools of Specialisation initiative is a bold step by the Gauteng Department of Education to cultivate excellence in strategic fields aligned with key sectors of the economy.
Ribane-Laka joins this growing network of centres of excellence, now positioned as a skills hub where learners are equipped with critical knowledge in automotive engineering and electronic systems, empowering them to compete in a rapidly advancing world.
The focus on Automotive and Electronics is strategically aligned with Gauteng’s economic development goals, particularly those within the Northern Development Corridor.
In this context, Ribane-Laka is positioned as a critical hub for technological advancement and skills development in Automotive & Electronics.
Today’s launch not only celebrated the official opening of the school’s new focus, but also showcased the exceptional capabilities of its learners.
Highlights included:
Engine diagnostics demonstrations by Grade 12 learners
Two custom-built cars manufactured and engineered by learners, named Chi-Panya Panya & Ngom Ngom respectively, designed to carry up to 500kg using a hybrid engine models
A conceptual mobile fuel and mechanical support company envisioned by learners
Working engine models illustrating key mechanical components and systems
Drone, coding & robotics technology
Ribane-Laka Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation has undergone extensive construction and renovation by the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure & Development (GPDID) to create:
State-of-the-art automotive and electronics training facilities
Modernised ICT infrastructure
Advanced science laboratories
A multipurpose auditorium
Specialised classrooms that link theoretical instruction to real-world industry applications
The school’s academic excellence further strengthens this foundation — it achieved an impressive 95.24% NSC pass rate in 2024, followed by a 98% pass rate in the March 2025 term.
These achievements reflect the school’s consistent dedication to academic rigour.
This transformation has been made possible through critical industry partnerships, which provide not only resources but also mentorship and career pathways for learners.
The GDE extends its appreciation to:
SAAB Grintek Defence, for academic recognition support
Ford Motor Company, for donating a training vehicle on school premises for learners to practice analytical engine car diagnostics
Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), for providing a cross car for the ceremony
Lanseria Airport, for supporting academic excellence initiatives
These partnerships ensure that Ribane-Laka learners are immersed in real-world industry environments and exposed to authentic engineering challenges.
They are encouraged to solve problems, design solutions, and prepare for employment in high-demand sectors.
The learners of Ribane-Laka are pioneers.
Their education will not merely expose them to the Fourth Industrial Revolution it will position them as leaders within it.
From programming intelligent systems to diagnosing electric vehicle faults, their skillset will bridge theory with practice in service of economic progress.
Speaking at the event, Premier Panyaza Lesufi hailed the launch as “education that makes economic sense, education that works, and education that empowers.”
He praised the learners for their impressive displays in automotive and engineering and called on the Mamelodi community to protect and support the school.
“To the learners — this is your time. Make the most of this opportunity. You are the innovators and leaders of tomorrow,” he said.
He concluded by affirming that “Gauteng’s basic education system is the most advanced in the country, and this school is proof of that progress.”
Speaking earlier, MEC Matome Chiloane emphasised the transformative role of the school, saying:
“This school represents the intersection of innovation, technical knowledge and opportunity.
We are not just teaching learners about engines or electronics — we are equipping them with tools to drive the future of this country.
Ribane-Laka is now more than just a school — it’s a launchpad for greatness.”
MEC Mamabolo also added: “We plead with the community to protect this investment we have made as the Gauteng Government, to guard it from all forms of vandalism and misconduct, and ensure that it benefits many generations to come.”