Eldocrescent Primary to host concert fundraiser for school repairs

Eldocrescent Primary School (EPS) is inviting the community of Eldorado Park and surrounding areas to a fun family concert featuring Exaltation Junior Community Project at Dartmoor Avenue, Eldorado Park, on June 13.

As government raises concerns over budget constraints affecting schools across the country, the school governing body (SGB) has organised the fundraiser in an effort to raise money for urgent repairs and operational needs at the school.

According to SGB deputy chairperson Charmain Buys, the school has been struggling to maintain infrastructure due to insufficient funding and delayed allocations.

ALSO READ: Maponya Mall hosts first Mother’s Day concert celebrating Soweto women

“We are a Quintile 4 school, so the department does not pay our SGB staff. We as the SGB have to raise the funds ourselves,” said Buys.

She explained that the school has ongoing issues with damaged toilets, an ageing parking area and fencing that has contributed to repeated break-ins.

“With the fence, people break into the school and that is where we lose a lot. The toilets are also a hygiene concern and the parking area has become dangerous because it is almost 40 years old,” she said.

Buys said thieves recently stole copper pipes from the school’s toilets, leaving learners with limited facilities.

ALSO READ: Letsibogo Girls High celebrates Heritage Day with first annual magnet concert

“The children can now only use one toilet because the pipes were stolen. Some of the toilets are over 40 years old and even if they are cleaned every day, there is still a stench because of the old system underneath,” she added.

She said the SGB hopes to raise more than R50 000 through the fundraiser to begin addressing at least one of the major projects.

“We know we will not fix everything at once, but if we can complete one project properly, it will already make a difference,” said Buys.

The SGB has also been approaching local businesses and organisations for sponsorships and support. However, Buys said no businesses had yet come forward to assist.

SGB secretary Mary-Anne Mat-Hope appealed to the community to support the initiative.

“Our schools are for everybody. It is not just for our children, it is part of the community. Any support in any way would really help the school,” said Mat-Hope.

She encouraged residents to purchase tickets and attend the event with their families.

The concert will feature performances by Exaltation Junior Community Project and the school choir.

ALSO READ: 55 acts to perform at Ubuciko Bengoma concert

Teacher and choir conductor Ladan said community members can expect an uplifting afternoon of music and entertainment.

“People can expect sweet, honest voices, excitement and good music. It is mainly gospel music, but we may twist it up a little,” said Ladan.

She added that the learners have been rehearsing twice a week in preparation for the concert.

Tickets cost R50 for adults and R30 for children. Tickets are available from the school office daily between 8am to 4pm.

The event will also include refreshments, snacks and other treats on sale to help raise additional funds for the school.

For more information contact Buys at 076 183 4743.