A new library and resource centre has been unveiled at Rebontsheng Primary School to strengthen childhood literacy and create a better learning environment.

The fully furnished information and resource centre, equipped with two reading rooms and more than 7,000 books, was officially opened at Rebontsheng Primary School in Vosloorus by DP World in partnership with the Motus Community Trust on July 23.

The initiative aims to improve literacy and provide learners with greater access to educational resources. Many pupils come from nearby informal settlements where access to books, the internet and quiet study spaces is limited.

Rebontsheng Primary School principal, Readers Sithole expressed his excitement and gratitude, saying the new facility will help learners improve academically.

He said the resource centre will enhance learners’ reading, comprehension and writing skills.

 “Many of our pupils struggled to read and understand effectively because, while they were taught in class, they had no access to facilities where they could research and reinforce what they had learned,” he said.

 “This library will bridge that gap by giving every learner access to books, digital resources and internet facilities that many do not have in their communities.”

Satie Raath, Executive Manager at DP World and the Motus Community Trust, said Rebontsheng Primary School was chosen because the organisation was confident the facility would be put to good use.

 “As a community trust, we set ourselves the goal of building 100 libraries at schools across Gauteng. We are excited because the library we are officially opening today is the 97th. We are on track to achieve our target before the end of this year.

 “We believe this resource centre will be well utilised because the school values reading and learning,” said Raath.

She added that the facility includes two reading rooms, allowing teachers to divide large classes into smaller groups where learners can receive more individual attention and strengthen their literacy skills.

 “Our librarian assistants will support teachers by working with smaller groups of pupils. When children learn to read with understanding at an early age, it has a positive impact on the rest of their academic journey,” she said.

Grade 5 learner Buhle Magwegwe said the new library has given learners renewed hope.

 “We needed this facility, and we are happy it has finally been built at our school. It will help us improve our reading and research skills. We sincerely appreciate what all the role players have done for us,” said Buhle.

Another learner, Delight Mumera, said the library would provide a peaceful environment for studying.

 “I’ve tried studying in different places, but it was difficult because of the noise. Now I have a quiet space with books and learning resources that will help me prepare for my future,” she said.