VIEW ARTICLE FROM: GAUTENG NEWS
Going back to school is an expensive time for families, but for low-income ones it is a an added financial burden. As a result LeboneLitho-Printers has donated stationery and R100 000 to Everest Primary School in Newclare, Randburg recently. The donation is aimed at improving access to quality education for future leaders.
LeboneLitho-Printers CEO , Keith Michael handed-out the donation to the school Principal Brian Berry at the 94.7 FM offices at Monte Casino in Fourways. The organisation gave-away stationery such as schoolbooks, crayons, pencils and rubbers.
Everest Primary School is situated in a disadvantaged community dominated by gangsterism, drugs and substance abuse. The school is home to over 1 000learners who come from difficult backgrounds and rely on social grants to survive. Michael stated that the school is located where he grew-up.
“The primary school is in the area I grew up and I saw the need to support them considering the tough challenges we have faced as a country during 2020. We hope that learners can learn and enjoy the 2021 academic year without having to worry about stationery,”
“it is our responsibility as parents and guardians to nurture and help shape their future. Let us cultivate a reading culture among children and encourage them to participate in other skill enhancing activities both at home and at school. We also encourage other businesses to uplift local communities.”
The school aim to educate and empower learners from a foundation phase-up. They want to ensure that leaners are knowledgeable, fully equipped, and ready for the senior phases that follow.
According to the Department of Basic Education, about 60% of first graders drop out before they complete grade 12. Only 52% of the age-appropriate population remain enrolled and about 12% is eligible for tertiary/higher education.
This is caused by several factors which include not living with both parents, lack of family, community and health support, substance abuse and shortage of resources. 947 FM Station Manager, Thando Makhunga has appreciated the donation from this organisation.
“We would like to thank LeboneLitho Printers for this wonderful donation, it really means a lot to us. This donation will certainly go a long way and bring great relief to the parents. We are proud to say our learners will be able to focus on passing, as the challenge of stationery has been eliminated”
