Mikateko Primary School teacher Ms Lesiba Mamafha, in partnership with Statucor Company, contributed 305 pairs of new school shoes to needy learners on Wednesday last week.
The donation came after Ms Mamafha and Statucor raised an undisclosed amount of money for the shoe project.
The initiative was founded by Ms Mamafha last year when she was touched by the plight of some learners who were attending school in torn shoes.
“It happened one day that I needed help from two learners at the school to move some items from my car. I spotted one of them wearing torn shoes and I felt pain. I then bought the learner school shoes. It didn’t end there. I continued to identify other learners who did not have proper school uniforms and assisted where I could.
“Last year I approached the school principal to see how we can help those learners who do not have a proper school uniform. He gave me the go-ahead to start a shoe project. I did not know how I was going to find sponsors. I then spoke to my son, who helped by airing the project on Radio 702, and that’s when Statucor identified us,” explained Ms Mamafha.
Ms Mamafha said she managed to raise the money from other school officials and the community.
“I thank Statucor and people who contributed to making this project a success on the first attempt. I am hoping next year it will grow. My dream is to see all our learners coming to school in a full, proper uniform,” said Ms Mamafha.
Ms Farzana Ganchi, a representative from Statucor, said they wanted to ensure that the learners receive school shoes.
“Education is very important to Statucor. Our aim is to assist these learners to receive a better education,” added Ms Ganchi.
Members from Mamelodi Sundowns also supported the initiative and brought ‘Skeem Saam’ actor Patrick Sanku Bokaba (Advocate Bopape in the show) to encourage and cheer up the learners of Mikateko Primary School.
Upon his arrival, most learners did not recognise him. But after Mr Bokaba was introduced to them during the hand-over of the school shoes, the learners couldn’t contain their joy. The screamed with excitement and took photographs with him.
He encouraged the learners to find their true purpose while they are still young.
“Regardless of coming from a poor background, you can still live out your purpose. Education is important, and we support your educator’s initiative,” said Mr Bokaba.
Meanwhile, the school principal, Mr Mandla Sebanyoni, said they were grateful for the donation and the sponsors who made it possible.
“We are grateful to Statucor and our school teacher, Ms Mamafha, for her selfless attitude. Uniforms are part of the process to ensure effective teaching and learning in the communities. Learners without school uniforms are affected emotionally and lose self-esteem. The donation will help encourage the beneficiaries not to be afraid to come to school,” said Mr Sebanyoni.
