The Eastern Cape Department of Education, MEC Fundile Gade, Amahlathi Local Municipality Mayor Councillor Nomakhosazana Nongqayi, Speaker Councillor Nokuzola Mlahleki and Councillors hand over school uniforms to 100 students at Masiphumle Primary School in Ndakana as part of the Back-to-School Campaign, as well as to monitor the overall state of readiness for the year 2024.

The Programme started off by MEC Gade addressing the learners during the morning assembly session.

Gade said, “Visiting the school and donating the uniform to these kids is important as it shows how much we care and that we are concerned about what is happening at our schools and that we want to see both the teachers and learners succeed.”

Therefore, I appeal to the teachers to educate the learners about the importance of cleanliness in their everyday lives, and to find means to attract more learner enrollment at the school.

Amahlathi Local Municipality Mayor, Councillor Nongqayi said, “By building the future of these children, we are building the future of the country. Therefore, I wish the teachers and learners all the best for the year 2024, and our doors will always be open to assist where we can."

Masiphumle PS Principal Zoliswa Mtiya applauded the school visit from the Executive Mayor, members of the community, the House of Traditional Leaders, Ward Councillor but most importantly MEC Fundile Gade.

Zoliswa said, “I appreciate such a wonderful kick off and wish you all a better, greater year ahead and beyond, we hope this will boost and encourage us to work towards a common goal of learner development, as well as finding solutions to increase learner enrollment as the year goes.

Also attending the school visit was the Ndakeni Educational Support Initiative (NESI) Provincial Coordinator, Siyabonga Mampanga.  Siyabonga said,  "From 2018 at Masimanyane High School until 2023 we have been working closely with the Education Department, Amahlathi Mayor and the Sandile kingdom, therefore we will continue to be supportive and be very positive towards our intentions to change our community for the better."