A donation of full sets of uniform made by the Ikaelelo Secondary School Alumni Association is envisaged to inspire learners to continue their education.
The gesture of goodwill sees the alumni uphold the belief that charity begins at home, which resonates with the spirit of humanity.
Each of the 100 recipients at this Bloemfontein school received a brand-new uniform – be it shoes with a shirt and trousers, or with a blouse and a skirt.
This has relieved them of the burden of wearing uniforms that are in poor condition, having to go to school barefoot, or wearing worn out shoes.
The alumni’s executive committee paid a visit to the school on 28 February to present the uniforms – much to the joy of the beneficiaries.
According to Andrew Seatlholo, deputy chairperson, the initiative is aimed at addressing the plight of needy learners, and was made possible with the help of three donors.
“The gesture will have a far-reaching positive impact on the learners’ life,” says Seatlholo.
“Our initiative aims at renewing their interest in education and inspiring them to continue their schooling journey, which is fundamental to improving their quality of life and their immediate family’s.
“We would like them to live the dream to be better people and not be discouraged by not having a decent uniform.”
Seatlholo says the uniform donation was the association’s second initiative. The first entailed a donation of toiletries and sanitary products to Gr. 12 learners who attended preparatory matric camp for the 2022 National Senior Certificate examination.
“The uniform initiative was prompted by the challenges faced by the group of learners identified. They are walking long distances to and from school daily and are from under-privileged families, too,” says Seatlholo.
He confirmed that the alumni also had other initiatives planned for the school.
“We are hoping to engage the community, as well as parents.”
The gesture will have a far-reaching positive impact on the learners’ life.
– Andrew Seatlholo
