Needy pupils at Khulasizwe Primary School were presented with school uniforms on Friday last week.
The deputy principal, Mr Vusumuzi Zwane, said the initiative was made possible by the department of social development.
Pupils who are in need of assistance were identified and therefore 100 packs containing full school uniforms and underwear were presented to the pupils.
“The pupils will now feel equal to their fellow pupils, whereas they felt inferior before. Their academic performance was dropping drastically,” said Mr Zwane.
He said the school would like to thank the department of social development.
“For now only 100 pupils benefited. We hope the number expands in the future. We would also like to appeal to other stake holders to also assist the school to alleviate challenges faced by the school,” said the deputy principal.
He said a number of these children come from the poverty-stricken Madelakufa informal settlement.
In passing the baton to the parents, he said on March 13 there will be a workshop where facilitators from the education district offices will be educating parents on how to help children with school work. He appealed to parents to play their part by attending.
“I am happy because I will now look like all the other children,” said 12-year-old Athule Jayiya.
Ms Gloria Nyaweleni Netshiunda, a Chedisa cooperative representative, said her organisation wishes to do more. She also hopes the government will expand its allocation.
“This will bring back their self esteem. A child must be sent to school even if they don’t have a uniform. Somebody is watching and will lend a helping hand,” said Ms Netshiunda.
Chedisa cooperative consists of dedicated local women who committed themselves to alleviating the plight of needy children.
