Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
PHILANTHROPIST Ms Sithabile Gandi-Ndlovu has made a timely donation of soccer kits to rural Izimnyama Primary School in Mangwe District, Matabeleland South province and also paid full school fees for five top performing pupils from Grade 3 to 7.
Ms Gandi-Ndlovu on Thursday handed over a soccer kit and materials needed in a soccer training setup.
She said the donation is to ensure that rural learners do not lose our on opportunities to showcase their talent outside academics.
“Yesterday (Thursday) we successfully donated a full boys’ soccer kit to the school, complete with everything the team needs to hit the pitch. Soccer is so much more than just a game in our community, it teaches teamwork, discipline and resilience.
“By equipping our young boys with this kit, we aren’t just giving them gear we are giving them the pride of stepping onto the field looking and feeling like the champions they are,” said Ms Gandi-Ndlovu.
She said the inspiration came from a deep rooted belief that education and holistic development play a fundamental role in the growth of a child.
“Every single child in our rural communities deserves the exact same support, resources, and opportunities as anyone else, so they can effectively learn, grow and compete on a global stage.
“Growing up in this very community, I attended my primary school under similar conditions and I know firsthand what it feels like to lack exposure. I know how a lack of resources can inadvertently stifle a child’s creativity, growth, imagination, and their ultimate ability to truly blossom.
“It is our profound responsibility to look after our little brothers and sisters—that is the spirit of Ubuntu we were raised on. I am incredibly humbled and happy to give back to my community in such an impactful way,” she said.
Ms Gandi-Ndlovu said she is already looking forward to rolling out more positive initiatives at the school in the coming months, with a sharp focus on boosting the pass rate and restoring hope.
“I want these students to see me and know that they can be absolutely anything they want to be. To reinforce that commitment to education, alongside the sports kit, I have also fully paid the school fees for five of the top-performing students from Grade 3 to Grade 7.
“Our children are the ultimate keys to the future success of our community, and by investing in both their education and their passions today, we are securing a brighter tomorrow for us all,” said Ms Gandi-Ndlovu.
Izimnyama Primary School deputy headmaster Mr Wellington Mzila said there are grateful for the support.
“We are very grateful indeed. The donation will go a long way in uplifting our learners especially the boys soccer team. We really really appreciate her efforts,” said Mr Mzila.
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