The Adopt-a-School Foundation, based in Chislehurston, celebrated their seventh Back to School for a Day event to commemorate Mandela Day.
Adopt-a-School Foundation sent out a call to action to its corporate partners to support the development of an Early Childhood Development Centre by pledging a donation towards the project. AngloGold Ashanti came on board as the main sponsor, followed by a number of long-time supporters including Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, FeverTree Consulting, Premier Optical, McDonald’s and Triviron.
In addition to the funds pledged, each of the organisations took a number of corporate volunteers to participate in a range of volunteer projects on the day, aimed at the sustainable betterment of the Olifanstvlei Primary School. The First Lady, Dr Tshepo Motsepe, the top 16 Miss South Africa finalists and a host of South African celebrities joined the Adopt-a-School Foundation, alongside its corporate and school partners, in support of collective and sustainable action for education.
The day began with a formal ceremony hosted by the key stakeholders and a tour of the school. Volunteer activities began simultaneously and these activities included the painting the Grade R classrooms, the development of vegetable gardens that will provide fresh food to the learners through the school’s feeding scheme and revamping the sports combination court.
Volunteers also took part in activities that included fixing the jungle gym, fencing and enhancing the school’s library. In order to celebrate Madiba’s birthday with the learners, Adopt-a-School Foundation hosted a fun day of activities and storytelling with the Grade R learners. Premier Optical conducted eyesight testing and donated spectacles for every learner in need of them. McDonald’s catered for guests, learners and school staff on the day.
“Olifantsvlei Primary School began in the 60s in a cowshed. In 2005 the school was adopted and through the support of its partners, the school received over 10 classrooms, an administration block, a Grade R facility, fully resourced computer and science laboratories, a well-resourced library, curriculum and leadership development programmes and much needed support for orphans and vulnerable children,” said Steven Lebere, Adopt-a-School Foundations’ Executive Director.
He added that Back to School for a Day extends beyond just an annual day of action in that it encourages citizens to become involved in improving education on a sustained basis.
“This day will help improve the physical environments where children learn, grow and develop to reach their full potential. Whether it’s painting the walls, planting food gardens or fixing broken furniture – this day is about rolling up our sleeves and lending a hand to make a difference.”
Details: Adopt-a-School Foundation info@adoptaschool.co.za
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