Madiba Comprehensive School gets major ablution facility boost

Ceramic Industries aimed to improve the lives of the communities in which they operate through education, sports development and conservation.

This year, Madiba Comprehensive School in Kagiso was chosen as the beneficiary for Mandela Day.

According to the company’s corporate social investment manager Tabisa Ngubo, they have been dedicated to the betterment of the communities within the country over the years.

“We select deserving schools to benefit from our Mandela Day annual classroom and ablution facilities revamp project each year. Madiba School is part of the Italtile Ceramic Foundation’s Maths and Science programme. We donated over 500 square metres of tiles, tile adhesives, seven toilet sets, and three urinals, and contributed to labour costs. This project aligns with Ceramic Industries’ business growth strategy, which is embedded in our community development strategy and aimed at contributing to the development of our economy by investing in youth.

“We understand the power of proper classrooms and decent toilets in creating safe and healthy school environments where learners can focus on learning. Proper classrooms foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere, instilling a sense of belonging, respect, and support among learners. Moreover, decent classrooms and toilets instil pride in the school community, contributing to a positive overall learning environment.”

Thabisa added what makes this initiative extra special is that it appoints one of its Enterprise Development Small Micro Medium Enterprise (SMME) owners to ensure they develop the SMME and grant them access to opportunities to grow their businesses and create job opportunities.

He said the project started on the first week of July to hand over the facility on Mandela Day, which was successfully achieved.

“The atmosphere at the school truly reflected Mandela’s legacy as each speaker emphasised the importance of education during the handover ceremony through the words of Madiba that reads … ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world’.”

During her gratitude speech, Grade 11 learner and the chairperson of the Representative Council of Learners (RCL), Charmaine Njenge, highlighted the importance of investing in public schools to ensure learners gain access to more support, leading to their success.

“Such initiatives reignite our passion for achieving our dreams,” she said.

Betta Sanitaryware senior factory manager Zamo Ntshangase concluded the event by reaffirming Ceramic Industries’ unwavering commitment to the betterment of communities.

“The team is working tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of the company during these challenging economic times, allowing us to continue running impactful community development projects.”

The event was attended by parents, learners, community representatives, the school governing body, the Gauteng Department of Education Strategic Partnerships, the Department of Education Infrastructure District Office, the school principal, Ceramic Industries management and employees.