×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Sponsorship ensures kids get their chance at success

Namhla Tshisela

Namhla Tshisela

The new year will start on a high note for the pupils of Bothlale Intermediate School in Letlhakane village, North West.

The school's 400 pupils can, from next week, expect to receive school bags filled with pens and exercise books from Hollard, Sowetan's corporate social responsibility partner, courtesy of the Silveray Stationery Company.

The announcement of the gift follows an award ceremony at which the school's academic and sports achievers were recognised.

"The pupils worked very hard and deserved to be recognised and rewarded for their efforts," said Sihle Zulu of Hollard.

Kgakgamatso Mpambane, the top pupil at the school, dreams of being a scientist. She was honoured for passing all her grade 8 subjects.

Hollard gave her two awards - one for academic excellence and another for her superb reading skills.

"I'm grateful for all these fantastic awards from Hollard because they encourage me to work even harder," said Mpambane.

Zulu said the awards would not only encourage the pupils to do better, but would have a positive effect on the teachers and the community.

School principal Samson Motlhabane said: "There's a difference of well over 200km between Bothlale and Hollard. But we at the school feel as if they are our neighbours - they're just a phone call away whenever we need them."

Hollard adopted the school in 2003 when it gave books as part of the Rally to Read campaign.

In October Hollard opened four classrooms, an administration block and toilets to add to the school's seven classrooms. The company also gave the school 10 computers.

The school was founded in 1996 for the children of farmworkers.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.