derick.khumalo
Eliah Saushoma
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TOWNSEND High School in Bulawayo has embarked on a fundraising drive to mobilise resources to renovate and modernise the 75-year-old institution.
The school yesterday held a fundraising walk aimed at raising funds for infrastructure upgrades, including the renovation of girls’ ablution facilities, the library and improving the general appearance of the school.
Speaking during the event, Townsend High School headmistress Mrs Thokozile Tshabalala said the initiative was part of efforts to explore alternative funding streams beyond school fees and levies, thereby reducing the financial burden on parents.
“Our school is 75 years old, and there is a lot that needs to be done to improve and modernise our infrastructure. The girls’ toilets have become old, the library requires renovation, and the overall appearance of the school also needs attention,” she said.
Mrs Tshabalala said the school wanted parents, learners and the community to continue taking pride in the institution.
“We do not want parents to say, ‘This used to be a good school.’ We want them to take pride in it and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing it develop. We want Townsend High to remain a school of choice,” she said.
The fundraising walk started at the Bulawayo Large City Hall and ended at the school, attracting parents, sponsors and renowned musician, Sandra Ndebele Sibindi, who entertained and encouraged participants along the route.
Ndebele Sibindi said the event promoted physical fitness, social interaction and helped address broader challenges affecting young people.
“As you are aware, the country is grappling with the scourge of drug and substance abuse. Activities like this encourage positive interaction among learners while promoting physical fitness. I am confident that, as parents, we will continue supporting our school,” she said.
One of the sponsors, Mr Kwanele Hlabangana of the Joshua Nkomo Restoration Trust, commended the school for taking the initiative to improve its facilities.
“Townsend has demonstrated a spirit of self-initiative in transforming the school, and we will continue supporting these efforts,” he said.
Bulawayo Ward 8 Councillor Lezina Mohamed, who is also a parent at the school, said the fundraising initiative would help ease pressure on parents while promoting community involvement in education.
“As parents, we already shoulder many responsibilities, but initiatives such as this help ease that burden. I also encourage other schools to adopt similar programmes that support the education and welfare of the girl child,” she said.
School authorities said proceeds from the fundraising walk would go towards renovating ablution facilities, refurbishing the library and enhancing the school’s overall appearance as Townsend High seeks to maintain its status as one of Bulawayo’s leading schools.
Mathew Masinge