The funds were provided by the Pillay family in honour of Calvin’s late father, Soobramoney Pillay.
It is the first maths centre of its kind on the East Rand, and is initiated to be a fun environment for teachers and students to develop maths skills.
Pillay said that she and her husband have adopted this project to help children in need.
“The school spirit is amazing and I am proud to be a part of it,” she added.
She said that the school principal Vanessa Moodley doesn’t believe in taking donations in the form of money, but rather in projects, which is why this initiative came to mind.
“Kids love creativity, but the centre actually stimulates the brain,” said Hema.
“The results of maths can be changed by just changing the perspective learners have thereof by stimulating the creative side of it.”
The centre is equipped with toys, computers and other equipment to develop the mathematical mind.
The centre’s décor was done by artist, Monique van Wyk, who painted all the walls with beautiful, bright colours.
Hema said that they have spent five hours of the past week on chess, during which 15 children mastered its tactics.
The official opening of the centre was held on August 22, at Actonville Primary School, and guests included staff of the school, the Pillay family, and representatives of Ekurhuleni North district and the Gauteng Department of Education amongst others.
Gordon Franks provided musical entertainment and acted as the MC for the event, and motivational speeches were given.
