Learners at Zandspruit Primary School received a much-needed donation of 1 300 brand-new school shoes, thanks to a collaborative effort between various stakeholders. The handover event, held at the school, also addressed key concerns around school safety and infrastructure challenges.

The initiative was supported by community leaders, law enforcement, and local organisations, with dignitaries in attendance, including Ward 114 councillor David Mangena and ANC deputy zonal chair Tshepo Marakalala.

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As part of the event, representatives from Honeydew Police Station and Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) engaged with learners on important issues affecting their well-being. Queen Mphatwe, from JMPD, and Mcedi Khoboka, chairperson of Youth Crime Prevention, spoke about bullying, while Nkhensani Mashele, from South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca), educated learners on the dangers of drug abuse. The Department of Health’s Region C representative, Lutendo Matakanye, emphasised the importance of hygiene.

Young Mohau Tapala, who serves as the junior district commissioner for the Johannesburg District, also took to the stage, inspiring his peers with his leadership role.

While the donation was a significant gesture, concerns were raised about the school’s infrastructure. Zandspruit Primary currently operates in container classrooms, and the lack of a permanent brick-and-mortar structure remains a challenge. Issues related to the school’s title deed were also highlighted as obstacles to development.

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To tackle these concerns, an ad hoc task team was set up with key stakeholders to find solutions. Mangena emphasised the importance of meaningful community initiatives, stating: “We don’t want events that are just to show off. We want events that are fruitful, just like this one.”

The event was hosted by Constable Mokgadi Mabotja, with Sergeant Bafana Ndimande later joining as a co-host. Pastor Sipho Magagula led the gathering in prayer, both opening and closing the proceedings, while principal Joshua Mamabulo welcomed the guests and expressed gratitude for their support.

The donation and discussions served as a reminder that collaboration between government, law enforcement, and the community is essential in improving the lives of young learners. The call to action remains clear: To provide a safer and better learning environment for the children of Zandspruit Primary.

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