Jape Greyling School, south of Johannesburg was the scene for the first event of the Department of Basic Education’s 94 Projects for Madiba Campaign.
The campaign is aimed at celebrating the 94th birthday of Former President Nelson Mandela by improving facilities at a minimum of 94 of the neediest schools across South Africa. The campaign has attracted an overwhelming response from corporate partners and the target of 94 schools was easily surpassed.
To mark the official launch of the Campaign’s activities, Minister of Basic Education, Mrs Angie Motshekga, unveiled the renovations at the school, which were completed by Ferrero South Africa Social Enterprise.
The project saw a full refurbishment of the school as well as the provision of access ramps and disabled toilets, making it a full service school.
The project has seen over 100 department officials, the Ferrero Social Enterprise team, builders, tilers, painters and other subcontractors working tirelessly, seven days a week, over the last three months to complete the project on time.
Speaking at the event, which was also attended by Gauteng MEC for Education, Barbara Creecy and Italian Ambassador to South Africa, Vincenzo Schioppa, Minister Motshekga thanked Ferrero for embracing the 94 Projects for Madiba campaign.
“The Ferrero-sponsored Japie Greyling bears testimony to great work possible to conjure up by a people united by a shared vision of reconstruction and development,” said the Minister.
“We are excited Ferrero has heeded the call to adopt a school and has embraced the 94 Projects for Madiba. Accordingly, we thank Ferrero for transforming this school from its archaic and ruinous 1930s look and feel. I encourage you to take rounds to witness: The repaired and painted roof; Newly built ramps for learners with disabilities; Painted classrooms; Renewed floors and ceilings; A new kitchen; Newly tiled bathrooms; Grade R play-area; Cricket nets and a sports-field.”
Ferrero Social Enterprises Vice-Secretary General Osvaldo Lingua said that his company was very proud to be part of the initiative which would benefit the children of many Ferrero employees who attend Japie Greyling.
"Ferrero South Africa Social Enterprise is very proud to be a partner in this inspirational initiative which aims to enhance teaching and learning environments,” said Lingua.