Former learners of Khomanani High School who are now business owners are ploughing back into the community by sponsoring a new, fully equipped science centre to the school.
The new centre will boast five well-equipped laboratories. The construction of the building will start at the end of July and the project is scheduled to be finished by May 2023. A sod-turning ceremony was held at the school on 2 July.
One of the sponsors, Mr Thomas Nkasi, owner of Uhandisi Solutions, said that the gesture was a matter of social responsibility. "We noticed how many rural learners are struggling because schools are unable to afford science labs with computers to provide learners with the necessary skills. We realised that we had a responsibility to help equip these pupils," he said.
Cllr Ernest Bamuza said that the donors were opening up doors for many disadvantaged learners, especially in the rural areas, who were not proficient in science subjects because of the lack of equipment and technology. "Not only does this affect job opportunities negatively, but also the South African economy, which is already faced with a skills shortage," he said.
The principal of the school, Mr Kaizen Shirilele, said that the donation came at a good time. "Children can never have enough resources. This will help us meet our mission of providing comprehensive information service to our learners, educators, and the community outside the campus. The production and dissemination of knowledge leads to economic benefits and enriches all fields of human endeavour," he said.
The executive secretary of the Khomanani Traditional Council, Mr Bongani Hlongwane, was delighted with the donation. "I cannot describe how I feel. We are very excited and will make the most of this generous gesture."
Hlongwane said the centre would enhance the learners' scope of learning. "This gift only indicates that we believe in education and our learners. We are living in a world of digital technology, where it has become a must for every school to have a well-equipped science laboratory," he said.
The donors are Uhundisi Solutions, Magoveni Farms and Top Quality Paints.