/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

Gauteng Premier, David Makhura on Thursday, 01 August, visited the construction site of the new Johannesburg Forensic Pathology Laboratory in Auckland Park, Johannesburg.

The R500 million state-of-the-art facility will replace the Joburg Forensic Pathology Mortuary in Hillbrow that is struggling to cope with the demand for forensic pathology services in Johannesburg.

Premier Makhura said that the 650-person storage academic facility will be used as an educational space with auditoriums, workspace and medical-procedure observation rooms for medical professionals and students.

“This project will uplift the community and assist medical student to do their research. The most important part the building design has taken cognizance of the stressful nature of the environment”, said David Makhura.
 
Once completed, the Forensic Laboratory, will transform the spatial landscape and link tertiary education sites around the province by adding to the existing amenities such as Ann Lasky Nursing College, Helen Joseph Hospital, University of Johannesburg Campus; Campus Square Shopping Complex and Rea Vaya Station Complex which has become both educational and health precinct around the Auckland Park area. This makes it one of the biggest facilities of this kind in the world.
 
The Forensic Pathology Laboratory building, forms part of the commitment made, by Premier David Makhura in his State of the Province Address to spend R60 billion in the new administration on infrastructure projects to drive an agenda for job creation, economic empowerment and spatial transformation.
 
“The Gauteng Government will continue to use these kinds of projects to empower our people particularly SMMEs and youth.” Makhura concluded.
 
The Gauteng Provincial Government has spent R 42, 2 million in procuring material such as steel and concrete from companies in the province and a further R9, 2 million through sub-contracting to local SMME. Upon completion, 250 work opportunities are expected to have been created for locals in the area.
 
Issued by the Gauteng Provincial Government