Hoërskool Birchleigh partners with SANBS for a blood drive
Each donation has the potential to save three lives, and the school continues to encourage this vital initiative.
The Hoërskool Birchleigh learners and staff partnered with the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) to donate blood and make a life-saving impact.
Each donation has the potential to save three lives, and the school continues to encourage this vital initiative.
The blood drive is not limited to learners and staff because community members could also participate.
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Recognising the school’s ongoing support, the SANBS awarded it a certificate of appreciation on February 7 for being the best-supporting school of 2024.
The school started this year’s first blood drive on February 11, welcoming 60 new donors.
Principal Carmen Govender emphasised the importance of instilling a lifelong commitment to blood donation among learners.
“For me, the most vital part is that our learners understand this is an ongoing commitment, an initiative that should continue into university and adulthood.
“The school has received many awards from the SANBS, and I am extremely proud of our learners’ willingness to participate in this life-changing initiative,” she said.
The school has been actively involved with the SANBS for several years, consistently increasing its donor numbers. The SANBS schedules three to four blood drives at the school annually.
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During the February 11 drive, the target was 79 units of blood, but the school exceeded expectations, collecting 97, with 60 from first-time donors.
Many learners see blood donation as a way to give back to the community and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Aquilla Enge, a Hoërskool Birchleigh learner, shared how donating blood had shaped her perspective on selflessness.
“Donating blood has taught me the value of selflessness and the importance of giving back to the community.
“It is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference in someone’s life, no matter how small it might seem,” she said.
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Fellow learner Ronald Mshothola encouraged others to donate, “Donating blood is an experience I highly recommend to everyone. It’s a chance to give back, make a difference and save lives.
“Together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness that can change the world,” he said.
Peter Mafela, the SANBS donor relations practitioner for the Boksburg branch, praised the school for its efforts.
“The recent blood collections at the school were the highest since I joined the branch.
“Hoërskool Birchleigh is the number one school when it comes to donating blood, and we are proud to recognise their commitment,” he said.
He added that his passion for saving lives is what inspired him to work with the SANBS, “My motivation for joining the SANBS was to play a role in saving lives. Working in the marketing department allows me to make a real impact.”
