The Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Nkosi Phathekile Holomisa, has on 14 October 2021 handed over school uniform to 190 learners from 19 schools in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape region. This noble act is a collaboration between the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Old Mutual and Mqanduli Advice Centre where 10 underprivileged learners from each school, who were identified by their school teachers, received a full set of uniform. This life changing joint project seeks to create a conducive learning conditions for learners in the rural parts of Eastern Cape.
Addressing the learners, school teachers, parents and stakeholders, Deputy Minister Holomisa commended Old Mutual who made a project of this magnitude possible and ensured its success. “We are gathered here to bring to fruition the request that was made to assist these learners, this project reaches out to the underprivileged learners” said Holomisa.
He was also pleased to see the Department of Education and the Department of Health’s involvement in the project. He encourages inter-governmental relations and stated that it is pertinent for government departments to work together. He mentioned that the skills that are found in one department can be improved in another. He further encouraged learners to focus on their studies and aspire to become successful. He further wished for Old Mutual not to tire but to continue to support DCS initiatives.
Acting National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, who delivered a motivational message to the learners, gave a detailed prospectus of the careers within the Department, such as medical professionals, human resources practitioners, communicators to mention a few. He advised the learners to focus on their studies, and said: “when you focus on your education, you focus on your future and build a nation”. On behalf of DCS management, Thobakgale thanked Old Mutual for the generous donation of R80 000 towards the purchasing of school uniform. “I would wish to see a continued partnership between Old Mutual and DCS, working together to eliminate socio-economic challenges and uplift our communities” said Thobakgale.
Old Mutual Provincial Management Chairperson, Vuyisile Koko, stated that the company is committed and dedicated to enable positive futures, as well as uplifting the lives of its customers, including members of the community. “Everything you imagine as a child, you can do it and you can achieve it” said Koko to the learners.
On behalf of the learners, Silolo Chuma from Pazima Junior Secondary School, conveyed a message of gratitude for the donations they have received through a rendition of an oratorical speech. She also assured Holomisa and the guests that the new uniform will boost their confidence, as they will no longer have to wear their old worn out uniform, which they were ashamed of.
