Soweto pupils benefit from new Aquafresh Confidence Library
Mobile library initiative combines reading and oral health education at Bonamelo Primary.
Aquafresh, one of Haleon’s leading oral brands, handed over a fully equipped, colourful mobile library at Bonamelo Primary School in Soweto on March 23.
This was aimed at driving efforts to improve children’s oral health and learning outcomes in local communities.
This was particularly relevant as the world marked World Oral Health Day, which is a global campaign to empower people with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to achieve good oral health.
The day was celebrated to boost the learners’ confidence in being able to read and flourish in their academic journey.
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The library will create a vibrant sanctuary of learning and play for more than 600 pupils.
Farhan Haroon, general manager at
Haleon SA, a global leader in consumer health specialising in better everyday health, said: “Confidence begins to take shape in childhood.”
“What we sometimes overlook is the role oral health plays in that journey. Being able to speak clearly and maintain a healthy mouth can have a real impact on how children express themselves and engage with the world around them.”
The learners were also treated to an interactive Oral Health Care Show, educating them on proper tooth brushing techniques and self-care tips.
This year marks the final year of the FDI World Dental Federation’s three-year campaign themed, ‘A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind’. It is designed to encourage positive change by educating people on the vital role a happy, healthy mouth plays in our lives.
‘’For many of our learners, opportunities like this can open a whole new world,’’ said Zandile Flatela, school principal.
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She said that the library will give learners an opportunity to explore their imagination, build confidence and develop a love for reading and shared how grateful they are to partners like Aquafresh and Haleon for investing in the future of their children and community.
The program has donated 10 libraries to ECD schools since launching in 2024 and has reached more than 1 020 schools since 2020, impacting over 240 000 learners across South Africa.
