How this Mankweng couple prepares for January’s back-to-school expenses

POLOKWANE – After weeks of festive cheer and family gatherings, many households are shifting into back-to-school mode, and for some, the transition is financially challenging.

For Pinky and Sammy Malesa from Moremadi Park outside Mankweng, January is a month of “recalculations, not resolutions.”

The couple, who are parents to three school-going children, say the excitement of returning to school is often balanced with stress over the expenses that come with it.

Pinky explained that moving from December’s celebrations to January’s financial realities is never easy.

“We try so hard to give our children a joyful holiday, but January is always a reminder that fun comes with a cost,” she said.

School uniforms, stationery, and transport make up most of their beginning-of-the-year expenses.

Because their children attend school far from home, forward planning has become essential.

Sammy, who works as a driver, said transport costs take the biggest chunk of their budget.

“The fuel price and taxi fares go up often. We pay transport for all three children, and because they travel to the same school, the driver gave us a discount,” he said.

To manage these rising costs, the couple begin buying stationery as early as November, spreading out purchases over several weeks.

Pinky also reuses items from previous years that are still in good condition.

“Not everything needs to be new, you’d be surprised how many stationery items survive the school year,” she said.

The couple involve their children in budgeting conversations to help them understand financial responsibility.

“We want them to know that money doesn’t just appear because you want something,” Sammy explained.

Financial experts encourage this approach, noting that involving children in financial planning teaches discipline, responsibility, and appreciation for the sacrifices parents make.