The Head of Department for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, DR Nkosinathi Sishi, gave a keynote address at a back to school prayer which was organised by the Themba Njilo Foundation on 27 January 2013, at the Pietermaritzburg City hall. He acknowledged Mr Themba Njilo for taking a stand in ensuring that learners from disadvantaged families get the opportunities to further their education in any institution of their choice.
“Social ills are not only government departments responsibility therefore we call upon the society to cut a pattern from Mr Njilo and work with us in ensuring that we protect our children,” said Dr Sishi.
The aim of this event was to create awareness on the fight against social Ills like alcohol abuse, drugs and teenage pregnancy that are faced by teenagers. One of the Themba Njilo’s Foundation objectives is to make a difference in people’s lives. “The Foundation is not aimed to benefit us but it is to give hope to the community members and give better future to the children from disadvantage families," said Mr Njilo.
Mr Njilo handed over 50 full set of uniforms, 50 stationary to disadvantaged learners from various Districts in the province and 11 bursaries were awarded to most deserving learners who performed well in 2012 NSC results.
This event was also attended by the Umgungundlovu District Mayor, Mr Yusuf Bhamjee who applauded Mr Njilo for making a difference in the lives of the disadvantaged learners. “The message is very clear, which is to protect the children from abuse and take a stand in the fight against social Ills, by working together we can win this battle,” said Mr Bhamjee. He also encouraged learners to focus on what is important which is their education.
