Unisa Radio has partnered with the metro to host a Back-to-School Charity Drive Activation in Akasia, Pretoria North, aimed at supporting learners in need with essential school supplies.

The initiative took place on February 27 at the metro’s Akasia Customer Care Centre.

The day’s programme began earlier with a community walkabout at Wonderpark Shopping Centre, where members of the public were encouraged to donate school shoes and stationery.

According to the organiser, Gwen Ncube, the activation forms part of a broader effort to support families facing financial strain at the start of the academic year.

“The Back-to-School Charity Drive seeks to address the challenges many families face at the start of the school year by ensuring learners have access to essential school supplies.”

She explained the initiative also aims to promote a sense of shared responsibility around education. “It intends to inspire collective community action while promoting education as a shared responsibility.”

In a show of private sector support, Wonderpark Shopping Centre management has committed to donating 25 self-care goodie bags for learners participating in the activation.

The collaboration highlights a growing trend of partnerships between local government, media platforms and business stakeholders to tackle community challenges together.

Unisa Radio broadcast live from both the walkabout at Wonderpark Shopping Centre and the activation at the Akasia Customer Care Centre.

“The objectives of the drive are clearly defined. These include collecting school shoes and stationery for learners in need, encouraging a culture of giving within communities and strengthening partnerships between media, local government and residents,” said Ncube.

Through this partnership, Unisa Radio and the metro aim to demonstrate how collaborative initiatives can drive meaningful change.

Ncube emphasised that the campaign seeks to show how partnerships can contribute to “community development through education-focused initiatives”.

Community members, businesses and organisations wishing to contribute school shoes or stationery are encouraged to get involved. Donations and enquiries can be directed to Tumelo Makgoara on 067 497 3618 or Tumi Mphaga on 082 952 0232.

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