A former KwaFaku Primary School teacher who now works in the property industry, Bukelwa Mayongo, donated food and school uniforms to about 50 needy pupils at the Lower Crossroads school on Tuesday March 7.
Ms Mayongo, 52, a resident of Bloubergstrand now, taught Grade 1 pupils at the school from 2000 to 2012. After years of teaching, she decided to go into business.
The former teacher said she donated food and school uniforms to 47 needy children at the school because she understood their plight. She recalled the days when most pupils would finish the year without proper school uniforms. She said at first she thought of giving laptops to the teaching staff but later changed her mind when she considered the children’s situation .
Ms Mayongo said she was touched by the poor children.
“I decided to do something for the children at the school. I am what I am today because of this school. I spent most time teaching here before I went to business sector. I owe it to them. I believe all that I have is because of the school. This is my thank-you to them. But I must say this is not the end,” she said.
Ms Mayongo said while other schools would also benefit from her generosity, it was important for her to start with her own school.
She also called on the children to continue with their schooling because it would change their lives.
School principal Maureen Figlan said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of Ms Mayongo.
“We know it is not enough but it is a lot for those who struggled to have uniforms. It brings smiles to their faces. We say thank you to her for thinking about us and our children. Children will improve and perform well now in classroom,” she said.
A grandmother of three who benefited from the donation, Lulala Mfazwe, conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to Ms Mayongo.
“I was lost for words because I could not have managed to buy uniforms for the three. I was planning to buy one by one but she came from heaven. This will boost the children’s self-esteem. My heart is (happy) to see a stranger doing such a good job,” she said.
School governing body chairperson, Sakhiwo George, said the school was grateful for the donation.