All systems go for learner dignity pack distribution

All systems are go for the distribution of 600 000 so-called “dignity packs” to learners across Gauteng after the provincial social development department finalised the appointment of a second service provider.

Each dignity pack include toiletries such as roll-on deodorant, body lotion, toothpaste and sanitary towels for girls.

The department reportedly experienced delays in finalising 50% of the packs when one of the recommended suppliers was not approved due to the outcome of a forensic investigation.

“The matter was resolved and another service provider was appointed in February 2021,” said departmental spokesperson Feziwe Ndwayana.

A number of other contracts for the supply of items that made up a complete pack had been awarded.

Ndwayana further said the department was working to mitigate any possible future delays and disruptions to the distribution of the packs.

“The department is working on a long-term tender to avoid delays and disruptions in the distribution,” she said.

The project to distribute the dignity packs to learners across the province was said to be in collaboration with the Gauteng education department with monitoring being a joint effort between the two departments.

“The contracted distributors deliver to the identified schools in line with the detailed school lists provided by the Gauteng Department of Education,” Ndwayana said.

Meanwhile, the department spokesperson also clarified reports claiming that the number of dignity packs that would be distributed had been reduced due to the budget thereof reportedly being re-prioritised.

“The department determined that the shifting of funds would not affect the set target,” she said.

This decision was based on the assessment of commitments in terms of awarded contracts at the time, as well as, linking this to the annual target of 1.2-million dignity packs for distribution and the impact the lockdown had on the distribution of the packs.

Ndwayana further explained the budget had been revised downwards from R161.5-million to R78.5-million based on the impact of show quarter one delivery on the overall target for the financial year.

“But, with the revised budget, the same output could still be realised,” she said.

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