Foundation donates school uniforms to 50 Thembisa learners

The Threads for iKasi Foundation, in partnership with Transnet, has embarked on a mission to donate school uniforms to learners across Thembisa.

As part of its 1000 Back to School initiative, the foundation visited Tshepisa Primary School on March 6, where 50 deserving learners received full sets of school uniforms.

The initiative, which aims to support underprivileged learners, is driven through collaboration with local schools.

These schools assist by identifying learners in need, enabling the foundation to ensure the uniforms reach those who need them most.

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Organisers highlighted that many families are unable to afford school uniforms, yet every parent hopes to see their child given a fair opportunity to succeed.

A proper uniform, they noted, plays an important role in boosting learners’ confidence and helping them feel included in the classroom environment.

Khabonina Mnguni of ZS Uniforms and Supplies said the first two beneficiary schools were selected in honour of the late principals.

“The schools have been very appreciative of the gesture. What people may not know is that we identified the first two schools based on events that took place last year.

“The principal of this school tragically lost his life in October, and the principal of Inxiweni suffered the same fate. We chose these schools as a way of paying homage to them and the institutions they led,” said Mnguni.

She added that the initiative will continue to expand its reach.

“Going forward, our aim is to go far and beyond in giving back to schools in Thembisa and ensuring that learners are able to receive their education with confidence.”

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Eveline Dlangamandla, a teacher and school uniform coordinator, explained how learners in need are identified.

“We identify learners through our own research, while in some cases the need is visible. Some learners come from old age homes, while others come from households where parents are unemployed. In many cases, the lack of a proper uniform affects their performance because they feel stressed and excluded,” she said.

“We often learn about their situations through their behaviour, appearance and how they interact with others. This gesture will go a long way for both the learners and their parents.

“We are very appreciative of the donation, and we know parents will be overjoyed to see their children properly dressed in a school uniform.”

The initiative was warmly received by the school’s principal, teachers, parents and, most importantly, the learners. The donation is expected to boost confidence and help recipients feel more included among their peers.
The handover was also dedicated to the memory of the late principal, Mr Kekana.