Hygiene standard bolstered at Slovoville Primary
Speaking about their support, she said the USA stepped up to the plate to support schools and communities in RSA – from the Western Cape to Limpopo provinces – that did not have water or sufficient handwashing stations.
In a time when education and good health are equally paramount in schools, the USAID sponsored much-needed handwashing stations at Slovoville Primary School to bolster their hygiene standards.
Nestled on the outskirts of Roodepoort (bordering Soweto), a contingent of dignitaries from the US Embassy, UNICEF, Ministry of Education led by Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, descended on the school on World AIDS Day, 1 December to officially hand over this vital hygiene equipment made of Jojo tanks to this beautiful school.
In her opening remarks, UNICEF Deputy Country Director, Muriel Mafico, praised Motshekga for fulfilling her commitment to ensuring that schools were safe when learners were given the green light to return to school in the midst of Covid-19.
“Minister, I remember very vividly when you were preparing the country for the reopening of schools. I remember that one of the key messages you kept repeating was the importance of making sure that when we reopen schools they will be safe for every child, teacher and everyone in the community,” she said.
She went on to highlight the importance of partnering with the Department of Education, World Vision and other role players to enable such projects because of the value they hold for education.
The US Ambassador to South Africa, Lana Marks, reminded the learners that education is the key to their success. “Education is one advantage you can have to get ahead in your life. The difference between South Africa’s past and future education is what will make the country different, and there is nothing that should ever take that away from you,” she encouraged.
Speaking about their support, she said the USA stepped up to the plate to support schools and communities in RSA – from the Western Cape to Limpopo provinces – that did not have water or sufficient handwashing stations.
“Our Office of Defence Corporation spent $225 000 in the construction of handwashing stations already in over 131 schools working together with USAID,” she said, also adding that more stations are in the pipeline for underserviced schools and communities.
Motshekga accepted the gesture from the US Embassy, saying, “Ambassador, it is a pleasure to come and receive this great gift from yourself and the people of America”.
She also alluded to the fact that USA is no stranger to supporting RSA in times of need. “We have a very strong relationship with the US, having received a lot of goodwill from you,” she explained.
As the academic year nears completion, the country’s First Teacher reminded the little ones to follow the Covid-19 protocol during the holiday season.
An emotional and delighted Thulani Simelane, the school principal concluded formalities by thanking all the role players and vowing to protect these assets on their premises.
“This is a community that needs all the help it can get. I am trying to hold back my tears for the joy I see with my eyes. If you value education and the lives of the children, good hygiene is what they need. We will definitely make good use of these three handwashing stations,” he said.
