The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Thandi Tobias-Pokolo handed over two hundred pairs of school-shoes to Mzimkhulu Primary School learners in Burgersdorp, Eastern Cape, yesterday.
Deputy Minister Tobias-Pokolo said the handover of the school shoes was a response to a request forwarded to her office by the Mzimkhulu headmaster, to assist with the dire situation faced by needy learners who would often arrive at school in either worn-out shoes or in some instances no shoes at all.
"I was once a school child myself and I can relate to the challenges faced by our learners. After receiving the request from the headmaster I made it my mission to ensure that the plight of these learners gets addressed. It is to my satisfaction knowing that this gesture will eliminate one of the numerous challenges that our learners encounter," said Deputy Minister Tobias-Pokolo.
Mzimkhulu Headmaster, Mr Mfanekiso Mxolisi was delighted that Deputy Minister Tobias-Pokolo took such an initiative visiting hisschool.
"Bringing shoes to our school has made a very significant symbol and statement. Those kids with worn and torn out shoes will be able to attend school with dignity. It might appear like an insignificant step by but it is my belief that such activities or such gestures have a long way in ensuring that we respond better in dealing with young learners so that they become better people tomorrow,” he said.
In conclusion, Deputy Minister Tobias-Pokolo expressed her delight at seeing the learners react after receiving their shoes.
"It is my belief that a little gesture makes a whole lot of difference and seeing these young ones eyes lit up after opening their boxes of new school shoes is for me the biggest satisfaction in making an impact in the lives of our people," she said.
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