New astro turf for school of skills

Members of the schools soccer team, Bongani Mazibuko, Amien Abrahams, Xabiso Matontsi, principal Aneez Manuels, Lucian Whitebooi, Jack Mpongo and Mayedwa Marvin.

Cafda School of Skills is boasting a new multi-purpose Astro turf, thanks to generous donations made by various organisations and the Partners for Possibility programme.

Activities at the field officially kicked off at the launch held on Saturday October 12 with five-a-side soccer matches and netball games and a fun day with stalls.

Businessman Ken Mckenzie has been working with the school for the past two years through the Partners for Possibility programme which is a partnership between school principals and business leaders.

Mr Mckenzie said he would continue working with the school; “We’re trying to make a better place for the pupils, parents and the wider community. We have done a few things, like painting and a mural and now the Astro turf but this is not the end. We are looking at other ways to keep the kids busy like sailing and golf so that they don’t fall victim to the many struggles in the community.”

Principal Aneez Manuels said the donation meant a lot to the school.

“I am very excited for what lies ahead for the school. It is a ‘plankie’ school but we have big dreams and hopes of one day having a school hall and even more and bigger facilities,” said Mr Manuels.

He thanked Mr Mckenzie and all the other sponsors and donors.

“This grass patch is not just a grass patch. Many of our pupils eat, sleep, drink and breathe soccer and it was decided that if we want to add value to our school, this was a good starting point. We want the pupils to value the school and by having the right facilities, it’s a start. It gives a sense of responsibility and will keep them occupied. It is exactly what we needed,” he said.