School kids get uniforms, stationery
By Tabisa Mntengwana
26 March 2009
THE East London Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) brought smiles to the faces of underprivileged children with a welcome donation of much-needed items.
School uniforms, stationery and rugby kits were handed over to the Isaiah 58 Children’s Home in Parkside by the IDZ, which was moved by the plight of poverty-stricken communities.
It teamed up with Umzo Construction “to bring a ray of light to these impoverished people by donating needed equipment for their benefit and enjoyment”, read a press statement issued by the IDZ.
Requests from such communities ranged from food gardens to sport fields, school uniforms and stationery. “This day we brought smiles and excitement to the youngsters; this was initiative to bring back their dignity.”
Ayanda Ramncwana, the IDZ’s communications and public relations specialist, said education was key to the success of a human being. “Dignified school uniforms and stationery play a very important role in ensuring that children achieve their goals.”
Established in September 2002, the IDZ is a government initiative aimed at growing the economy of East London and beyond by offering investors a globally competitive combination of geographic position, infrastructure, services and labour.
Speaking about the donation, Umzo Construction’s Douglas Sipeliti said, “We have been doing this for many years as part of our social responsibility [programme]. We are happy to help these vulnerable and less fortunate children.”
Sipeliti urged other businesses to join the IDZ and Umzo Construction in their efforts to bring a ray of hope to the underprivileged communities of East London. “It is not the amount of money or quantity alone that counts, but showing ubuntu.”
The donation was made at the end of February.
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