GRTU has this week written to the Minister for education and the Minister responsible for land stating that GRTU has been made aware by its members that there are around 12 buildings designated to be utilised as schools, which due to a number of reasons are not functioning as such.
The private sectors is very much in need of such buildings and we do feel it is a pity they are being deprived of such an opportunity when these buildings are in reality available. The private sector would rent these buildings to be used as they were originally designed to be used, as schools.
GRTU stated that it is aware that some ‘school buildings' have been condemned and therefore are currently vacant. The private sector is willing to carry out the necessary investments so that these buildings can be restored and used once again as schools. We are unfortunately also aware that there are other ‘school buildings' which have been given as office space and in the evenings utilised for evening classes. Today at the same time the private sector is utilising buildings designated for office space as schools because they cannot find schools to rent.
GRTU believes this is an issue that should be taken seriously not only because it will maximise the utilisation of resources, but it will also generate extra income for the Government and it saves the private sector from buying virgin land to build a school.
On a general note GRTU believes closer cooperation with the private sector should be further explored. For instance there are a number of state schools that have a very low number of students, which would constitute a perfect example of a possible private-public partnership that would guarantee to the Government that the local children are catered for and the use of the building would be maximised.
GRTU asked for an opportunity to further discuss the topic.