As we approach the last few weeks of winter, we reflect on what has been a remarkable 7 months.
The implementation phase of the KST programme is in full swing and currently 173 schools are engaged in the programme. Infrastructure has commenced in 38 of the 145 schools scheduled to receive infrastructure development in 2014. 98 schools are currently participating in curriculum development in literacy, mathematics, science and accounting. The programme has also identified 40 schools to receive eyesight testing this year and our mobile optometry clinics have visited 7 schools to date. In this newsletter you can read an article about a learner at Boitlamo Secondary School and how the KST programme has made an impact on her life already.
Adopt-a-School Foundation acknowledges the generosity of Shanduka Group CEO Phuti Mahanyele for donating the proceeds of her public speaking ventures to Adopt-a-School. Phuti is also a member of the Adopt-a-School Foundation Corporate Board. This gesture is one example of the many different ways that individuals can support the Foundation. Dedicating your birthday or special occasion to Adopt-a-School by fundraising in lieu of gifts is a very thoughtful way to support our work. Raising funds when you tick off an item on your bucket list is another opportunity to champion our cause. Our website is set up to host a dedicated fundraising page (with a secure donation platform) for your campaign.
I would also like to acknowledge the many companies who went Back to School for a Day on Mandela Day, 18 July 2014. In line with the national theme of cleanliness, hundreds of corporate volunteers descended on our schools armed with paint brushes and spades to clean up classrooms and playing grounds. Libraries, classrooms, administration facilities and feeding scheme kitchens received make-overs, complete with much needed resources, such as stoves, printers, food items, cupboards, furniture, stationery, chalkboards and books. Many schools received much needed educational resources, equipment for their administration and feeding schemes and donations for vulnerable learners. Not only did companies make a significant monetary investment in the renovations of these schools (reaching over R2 million), but corporate volunteers went above and beyond the 67 minutes in honour of Madiba by dedicating a full day to service these schools.
Board Members from Adopt-a-School Foundation and a number of the CEO’s from our Corporate Board joined Adopt-a-School to plant trees at Tshilidzi Primary School in Soweto.
I hope you have booked your table or seats for our Back to School Party on 18 October. We are looking forward to hosting another unique fundraising event. For more information or to book your table or seats please email Mmasa Nkgadima at mnkgadima@shanduka.co.za.
Regards,
Stephen Lebere
Executive Director
