MATSULU – This comes after the management of SM Funerals learned of schoolchildren being turned away from schools when they do not wear masks and the shortage of masks at schools.

According to Samkelo Mlotshwa, the company’s managing director, they were inspired to make the donation after learning of a 12-year old grade seven learner from a school in the Harry Gwala District in KwaZulu-Natal, allegedly being raped on her way home to fetch her mask which she had forgotten that morning.

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“Painful as it is, the situation inspired us to make a positive contribution to learners who are in need of face masks in
the area in which our business operates,” he said. On Mandela Day, Mlotshwa and his staff donated masks at Enzani
Primary, Sehlulile Primary and Sitfokotile Secondary schools in Matsulu.

Another 100 masks were handed out at eMseni Primary School in Nhlazatshe only five days later.
Mlotshwa said, “The KZN incident was evidence enough that there is a need for the private sector to assist government by donating more masks to schools to curb the spread of Covid-19 and prevent similar criminal activities.

We are committed to help in minimising the transmission at schools,” he said.

He told Mpumalanga News that he will build a decent kitchen facility at Sitfokotile Secondary School.
“Work will start around September,” Mlotshwa concluded.