There were smiles all round at White House hall in Khayelitsha on Monday when members of the DA donated stationery to 80 pupils from eight primary schools.
Parents made it clear that they were feeling the burden of stationery costs, and, for some, it had been an uphill battle to meet their children’s stationery needs.
Member of parliament and head of the DA’s constituency in Khayelitsha, Thandeka Nqada, said they were aware that some parents were unable to buy the stationery for their children, which hurt their school performance.
Ms Nqada said they wanted to boost the children’s confidence and encourage them stay in school despite the endless life challenges they might be facing.
She said if the child’s basic school needs were not met, they could not be expected to learn.
Ms Nqada was a drop in the ocean, but could at least make a difference for some.
“We want to curb school drop-outs and inspire children to be academics. Education is a societal responsibility. We need to help where we can and show kindness and humanity,” she said.
Parent Zukiswa Mhlahlo said she was grateful for the donation. The unemployed mother of four said she survived on social grants for two children, which were not enough to meet all their basic needs.
Ms Mhlahlo said her children would be looking forward to attending school with the new stationery.
“I have no words to describe what they have done for us. It might little in their eyes, but it has a lasting impact on our lives,” she said.
Grade 6 pupil Andisiwe Makoloano said she was happy that she would no longer have to borrow stationary from her classmates anymore and praised those behind the campaign.
