The parents of pupils at Sobambisana Primary School in Khayelitsha expressed their gratitude for the experience and opportunities that their children were exposed to through the school’s partnership with an NGO that works with its children on weekends.
At a health day held on Saturday September 21, parents experienced the work the Melela4Children (M4C) does with the children to educate them about health and healthy living.
The M4C Health Day gave those present access to health screenings and also hosted students from the University of the Western Cape who shared information relating to health issues.
Parent Nolubablo Ngxamngxa said since the organisation started working at the school, her daughter’s academic performance had improved.
“Gratitude to them for all they have done for us. They have not stopped tutoring our children but now are providing us with health issues. We got tested and screened and were given advice. The good thing they are referring us to the public is and bigger health facilities.
“Their introduction here is a blessing to parents of Khayelitsha,” she said.
Another parent, Nosizwe Tyhalisisu, added: “I give respect to these young people for their kindness. These are children that stay here every weeknd for our children. They have extended their love to the whole community by organising such an event. I am grateful to them,” she said.
M4C offers educational activities for pupils in Grades 4 to 6 at Sobambisana Public Primary and Sakumlandela Primary School, both based in Site B.
The pupils are tutored by young student volunteers from universities around Cape Town. The NGO’s representative, Percy Williamson, said his organisation would always strive to improve the lives of not only children, but parents as well. He said the move was to ensure that all who attended are served and given health advice.
Nurse Zizipho Lufefe said the day was relevant because people do not always have the time or cannot always afford to travel to health facilities. “It is a good day for them because we are right where they live. We do all kinds of tests. If there is a high possibility of any sickness we then refer them to the clinics or hospitals. But we also advise them on how to maintain their bodies, how to prevent diseases like tuberculosis and other health issues,” she said.