ML Sultan St Mary’s Primary School in South Africa has officially opened ‘The Oasis’, a new borehole and water purification facility. The project, years in the making, was unveiled on October 23, 2026. The facility represents a significant investment in water sustainability, promising financial savings, educational excellence, and a lifeline for the Merebank community. The school’s principal, Mr Ramesh Singh, outlined the project’s goals, including water security, financial sustainability, and community upliftment. The initiative aims to provide clean drinking water to the community during periods of water shortages.
The Oasis facility is more than just a water purification plant; it embodies the school’s vision of community service. The school plans to install a publicly accessible tap, allowing community members to obtain clean drinking water. This move reflects the school’s commitment to serving the community beyond its gates. By providing clean water, the school aims to make a positive impact on the lives of those living in the surrounding area. The project also acknowledges the school’s responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the community.
One of the significant benefits of The Oasis facility is the anticipated monthly savings on municipal water expenditure. By reducing its dependence on municipal water, the school hopes to redirect valuable financial resources towards improving facilities, educational programs, and opportunities for pupils. The ultimate goal is to channel these savings into building a school of excellence. This strategic move will enable the school to enhance the quality of education and provide a better learning environment for its students.
The project is a continuation of a vision conceived many years ago by former principal, Roshan Ramdheen. The original idea for a borehole was born during her leadership, and the current administration has brought it to fruition. The occasion celebrated not only the completion of a project but also the continuation of a vision across generations of school leadership. Singh paid tribute to Ramdheen, who attended the ceremony, acknowledging her role in initiating the project.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by several notable individuals, including borehole driller Umesh Parshutam and consultant, Kumarasen Govender. They shared their involvement in bringing the ambitious undertaking to completion. School governing body chairperson, Mr Vinodh Kanaipersad, also delivered an address, highlighting the significance of the occasion. The ceremony included the cutting of the ceremonial red ribbon and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
The Oasis facility was officially opened with a ceremonial tasting of the purified water, marking a historic milestone for the school. The event was attended by guests who celebrated the completion of the project. The message was clear: The Oasis is not just an infrastructure project but an investment in the future, a commitment to responsible resource management, stronger community partnerships, and creating an educational environment where every learner can thrive.
At St Mary’s, the dream is no longer simply to provide water but to use water to create opportunities. The school aims to create a positive impact on the community and provide a better learning environment for its students. The Oasis facility represents a significant step towards achieving this goal. By providing clean water and reducing municipal water expenditure, the school can allocate more resources to educational programs and facilities.
Key points
- The Oasis facility will provide clean drinking water to the community during periods of water shortages.
- The project aims to reduce the school’s dependence on municipal water, resulting in significant financial savings.
- The facility represents a commitment to responsible resource management and stronger community partnerships.
