Sontonga Mall gives back to local school
The donation of furniture to Thuto Pele Secondary School is a relief to many learners who had to endure sitting on the floor during classes.
Thuto Pele Secondary School received a donation of much-needed chairs and tables as learners sit for their final examination at AP Khumalo Section, Katlehong.
Sontonga Mall handed over at least 40 tables and 100 chairs to the Grade Nine learners on November 2.
The school principal Anna Thobejane said when she was appointed as the principal this year, she found eight classes that had a shortage of furniture.
“I went to Sontonga Mall to request assistance, where I met the centre manager. I explained our challenges to her, and she promised to make a plan for us,” said Thobejane.
“I am extremely happy because today she brought us 40 double tables for our Grade Nine learners, the biggest class with at least 54 learners.”
She said the learners could not all fit in one class while the school was experiencing a shortage of furniture.
“I moved the learners to the library that has a bigger space.”
Thobejane expressed her gratitude to Sontonga Mall, citing the manager never dismissed their request for support. Instead, she gave back to the same community that supports them.
“We also received 100 chairs. Our learners are all seated and we no longer have challenges on days like this when the whole school is writing exams.”
Grade Nine A learner Bathabile Mahlokobane said she is pleased because the shortage affected them as learners.
“The furniture will help us because sometimes four learners have to share a table. And sometimes they had to lend tables from other classes,” said Mahlokobane.
Sontonga Mall centre manager Anne Dire said when the principal approached them, they could really see the need.
“She told me that children sit on the floor while writing. I could imagine how children could do their best if they have to and learn in conditions like that, so I saw the need to help,”
She said it is a great pleasure to see children so happy and promised to continue supporting the school.
She noted that they support other schools as well, including Lungisani, Abraham Hope, Chivirikani, Ekurhuleni School for the Deaf, and Tamaho Primary School.
