New library has Igugulabasha bristling with energy
“One thing that can not be taken away from our children is their education.”
The Avbob Foundation handed over a library to Igugulabasha Primary School in Sakhile on Wednesday, November 22.
Young girls in colourful attire were practising their moves outside, the choir waited inside the tent where a red carpet was rolled out for dignitaries and guests.
Staff from the foundation and teachers were also present in the tent.
Ernest Mokoena, programme director, took charge of proceedings and welcomed everybody before the choir sang the national anthem.
After a short passage from Proverbs 4 and prayer, Mihlale Mncosini, a Grade 7 learner, gave a speech about the history of the school.
Igugulabasha was officially opened on August 25, 1995. This library can be accessed by the whole of the township with Khula-Sakhile Secondary School a stone’s throw away.
The chairperson of the student governing body, Solly Tsotetsi was next, followed by another learner from Grade 7, Ntando Nonfenge, who spoke in appreciation of the gesture of the funeral company.
Dumisani Zimu, principal, mentioned that there is no fence at the back of the library and spoke about the possibility of vandals damaging the structure.
The need for bricks and mortar fence was left in the air. Siyabonga Molefe, a Grade 6 learner, recited a poem before a representative of the Gert Sibande District gave his input.
The audience thoroughly enjoyed the presentations from the learners who were quite breathless afterwards.
The importance of reading was emphasised during the event and learners were encouraged to read.
Carl van der Riet, CEO of Avbob, keynote speaker, said this contribution is a critical step towards an improved future for learner performance in literacy and numeracy.
Van der Riet also said they will further supply libraries to deserving schools.
“We believe education provides the foundation of hope on which our children’s future will be built.
“The future of our children will be the future of our country. One thing that can not be taken away from our children is their education.”
As a gift, the podium will be left behind. In his address, Delani Louis Thabethe, executive mayor of the Lekwa Municipality, conveyed gratitude to the company on behalf of the community of Lekwa.
“It is an honour to stand behind a podium in a tent without a casket,” Thabethe said.
Van der Riet, Zimu and Thabethe officially opened the library.
