It’s all systems go at Zama school
A project at the Zama Montessori School, in Putfontein, was finalised after it came to fruition in the past three years.
The Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora was the main contributor and organiser of the project, which was handed over on April 15, at the school.
The event was attended by Zama Montessori staff and pupils, Clr Makgoba Kgopa (Ward 25) and Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora members.
“It’s a special day as we celebrate the relationship between Zama Montessori and Rotary International, and we officially hand over the projects and bring to closure this chapter, after three years of involvement,” said Denis Brandjes, Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora president.
The school started in 1987, in Daveyton, as an after school care centre, evolving first into a pre-school and later a primary school.
The school follows the international Montessori method of education, which is an educational system whereby the children teach themselves.
In 1993, the school moved to its current premises in Putfontein.
“The school is held in high regard for producing excellent and well-rounded learners, most of whom have gone on to achieve and contribute to our society,” said Brandjes.
“Yet, the school has had needs, and here Rotary could assist in making a difference.”
Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora started supporting the school in 2012, with the donation and installation of a computer centre.
Bukelwa Selema (headmistress and founder), Ntombi Selema (project manager) and a Rotary committee, chaired by Malcolm Sainsbury (Rotary community chairman) worked together to realise the project.
In addition to donating substantial funds, the projects that Rotary and the young Rotaractors have completed at the school over the past three years include:
- the aforementioned computer centre;
- the mobilisation of the windmill for water supply;
- assistance with the garden and related facilities;
- building and provisioning the ablution block and kitchen/dining facility;
- provision of more than 400m of concrete palisade walling around the property, to ensure the safety and security of the children and the school; the only outstanding item is the gate, which will be installed shortly;
- working through municipal water and electricity accounts, pointing out errors and resolving them.
In conclusion, Brandjes thanked and congratulated his fellow Rotarians and wished Zama luck for the future.
