Mikateka Primary School pupils took to the sky in a helicopter ride on September 30.
Educator Nomkhosi Omozuwa said about 200 children got to experience flying for the very first time.
“The event was a fundraiser for our grade 7 farewell and we asked parents to pay for the rides. The rides were open to all grades,” said Ms Omozuwa.
She said they are the first school in Tembisa to afford children this opportunity, where children can see their township from above.
The helicopter landed at the Kopanong sports ground in Ivory Park.
“This is both a fundraising event and an educational experience for children who might be interested in a career in aviation,” she said.
The school’s principal Mr Mandla Sibanyoni said he is happy for the children.
“The majority of these children are from poor families and in some instances both parents are not working. Some are orphans who are dependent on state grants,” said Mr Sibanyoni.
He said the children now have the experience of being in a helicopter, instead of just seeing it far above.
“I want thank parents, the Mikateka Primary School’s staff for their cooperation and the City of Johannesburg for letting the helicopter land at the Kopanong sports ground,” said Mr Sibanyoni.
Sesethu Mgidi, who is 11 years old, was excited about the ride.
“It is my first time in a helicopter. I want to be a doctor,” said the grade 6 pupil.
She said she wants to thank her mother and the school’s principal for making the experience possible.
