A lack of basic stationery should not stand in the way of a child’s education, according to Jabulane Mondlane, founder of TOYA Foundation, a community initiative supporting learners in Mpumalanga.

Established after Mondlane witnessed learners attending classes without pens and pencils, the foundation aims to ensure that children from underprivileged communities have access to essential learning materials.

Operating under the slogan ‘Strength Through Community’, TOYA Foundation focuses on providing stationery, school uniforms and learning support to help learners participate confidently in the classroom.

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Pilot drive aids 120 Makoko learners

On September 17, the foundation completed its first stationery drive at Makoko Primary School, where 120 learners received pens, pencils, rulers and erasers.

Mondlane described the initiative as a successful pilot project and said the foundation identifies beneficiaries in collaboration with school principals and teachers, who help determine the learners most in need.

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“The foundation also seeks to protect learners’ dignity by supporting whole classes rather than publicly singling out individual children who require assistance,” said Mondlane.
Mondlane said the initiative has already made a difference, with teachers reporting improvements in attendance and classroom participation after the donation.

Demand exceeds available resources

He said the foundation currently relies on his personal contributions and support from small businesses in Mbombela, while demand for assistance continues to exceed its available resources.

“Looking ahead, TOYA Foundation plans to extend its support to Malekutu, where 496 learners have been identified as potential beneficiaries, and is also exploring opportunities to assist Impumelelo Primary School,” he said.

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Mondlane said his long-term vision is to establish a learner support programme that provides stationery, school uniforms and career guidance.

He hopes the initiative will encourage more community members and businesses to contribute towards improving access to education.

Through its work, TOYA Foundation seeks to remind communities that even small acts of support can help learners approach their education with greater confidence