The Mangaung Primary School in Batho, Bloemfontein has received a donation which should enable its learners to become technologically savvy.
Included in the donation are not only stationery, but also computers.
This gesture was in support of the campaign associated with Mandela Month, aimed at dedicating 67 minutes to serving the community – honouring former president Nelson Mandela’s humanitarian spirit. The items were presented to the school on 22 July by the Free State Fujian Overseas Chinese Association. In attendance was members of the police and the Free State premier, Sisi Ntombela. The Chinese organisation, based in Bloemfontein, donated ten computers with monitors, 700 bags and stationery for the learners, as well as full sets of school uniform that include shoes for 140 learners from destitute backgrounds.
Computers fitted with the latest software and apps will replace outdated ones in the school computer laboratory. These will aid in teaching Mathematics and Science and advancing learning.
Jimmy Shi, chairman of the association, said this was the first school to benefit, but there were prospects to reach out to other schools. For now, the focus would be on Mangaung, which is the oldest school in Batho, he said.
“Our involvement is to support and honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy and support the dream to educate the nation,” said Shi.
“We are hoping to continue relations with the school and government to improve education and the lives of children.”
He said the computers would significantly contribute to advancing learners’ technology skills and contribute to their development and competitiveness.
Ntombela said the contribution would be far-reaching, uplifting the quality of education.
