Liberty Standard Bank Group made a significant contribution to the education of children at Windmill Park Primary School in Boksburg on June 12.
The group donated 600 pairs of school shoes to the school, bringing joy and relief to the learners and their families.
Tukelo Noko, a financial advisor of Liberty, was instrumental in identifying the school as a recipient of the donation.
She had been visiting the school and noticed the need for school shoes among the learners.
“I live around Windmill Park, and I started coming to the school to help with donations of sanitary pads because I simply wanted to help girls in need.
“At Liberty, they asked us to nominate schools in our area, and I chose Windmill Park Primary. I was thrilled when it was selected.
“This is my neighborhood, and I’ve seen many kids wearing torn or non-school shoes. There was a clear need,” said Noko.
Noko emphasised that giving is something she genuinely enjoys doing, and making children happy is what truly matters to her.
Oscar Lekoane, the school’s principal expressed deep gratitude for the donation.
“I first met Noko when she visited our school for her earlier initiatives. She saw firsthand the needs of our learners.
“Our school is situated in an area with high unemployment, and we have a committee that identifies children in need.
“When we learned about the shoe donation, we were ecstatic. Although we have more than 2 000 children, these 600 pairs will make a significant difference,” said Lekoane.
Lekoane also highlighted the broader impact of the donation.
“When children lack proper school attire, it affects their concentration and performance. They feel isolated and lose confidence.
“These new shoes will help improve attendance and academic performance. We are deeply thankful to Noko for identifying our school and to Liberty for their generous support.”
Bafana Fatyela from the Department of Education attended the donation event and underscored the importance of such contributions.
“We truly appreciate witnessing such occasions in our schools. These donations are an investment in our communities. They provide dignity to our learners and ensure they feel valued.
“In these challenging economic times, even the middle class is struggling, so you can imagine the plight of underprivileged communities served by Windmill Park Primary,” said Fatyela.
Fatyela added that the shoes came at the perfect time, especially as winter sets in.
The learners themselves were visibly moved and expressed their heartfelt thanks.
“These school shoes are more than just a gift. Thanks to the generosity and care of Liberty, we promise to wear them with pride and gratitude. We will never forget your kindness,” said the learners.
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