Basic Education Deputy Minister, Dr Reginah Mhaule, visited Khetsalwati Secondary School in the Mpumalanga Province this week as part of her ongoing school monitoring visits and stakeholder engagement programme. The programme underscores the Department’s commitment towards strengthening teaching and learning, engaging directly with school communities, and strengthening quality education across the country.
Dr Mhaule handed over school shoes, toiletries, sports equipment and a mobile mini library to learners from various schools across the Ehlanzeni District. The donations are intended to remove barriers to learning by providing learners with essential resources, whilst encouraging participation in sport and promoting a culture of reading. The mobile mini library will improve access to books and literacy resources for learners, contributing to stronger reading outcomes and lifelong learning.
Addressing learners, educators and stakeholders, the Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of partnerships in creating learning environments where every child has an opportunity to succeed. She emphasised that improving learner well-being, promoting dignity and expanding access to educational resources are essential components of delivering quality foundational education to ensure that learners reach their full potential.
Dr Mhaule encouraged communities to continue embracing the spirit of Mandela Month through meaningful acts of service that support learners and strengthen education beyond July: “Providing children with essential resources is not simply an act of generosity, but an investment in their future and a contribution towards ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to receive quality foundational education to create learning environments where every child can thrive.
The initiative was made possible through a partnership between the Department of Basic Education and Sanlam, demonstrating the important role that collaboration between government and the private sector plays in supporting education. During the programme, Sanlam reaffirmed its commitment to investing in South Africa’s future leaders by encouraging learners to remain focused on their education, persevere through challenges and believe in their ability to succeed. The organisation also acknowledged the dedication of principals and educators in shaping the lives of young people and building resilient school communities.
Deputy Minister Mhaule welcomed the partnership, noting that sustained collaboration with the private sector is vital in complementing government’s efforts to improve educational outcomes and ensure that no learner is left behind. She reiterated that initiatives which support learner welfare and provide access to educational resources contribute directly to creating an enabling environment for teaching and learning. The Department remains committed to working with partners to improve learner outcomes, strengthen literacy, promote holistic learner development and ensure that every child receives the quality foundational education needed to build a brighter future.