Pupils from seven schools in Grassy Park and Lotus River were given the opportunity to complete their schooling with a little bit of help.
The Norwegian Liaison Committee (NLC) of the Rotary Club of Wynberg annually give nearly R500 000 worth of bursaries to schools in less fortunate communities to assist pupils and their parents with uniforms, stationery and other goods they need to complete the schooling
year.
The schools awarded bursaries include De Duine Primary, Lotus River Primary, Montague’s Gift, Perivale Primary, Stephen Road Primary, Zeekoevlei High and Fairmount High School. The bursaries were handed over at a ceremony held at Fairmount High School on Wednesday October 18.
The pupils and parents do not receive the money directly but it is released to them on receipt of an invoice, and can only be used for uniforms, books and other school gear. The recipients are selected by the schools, and criteria include need and their academic performance.
Are Hovstad, chairman of the NLC, encouraged pupils to not give up on their dreams. “I hope they will work even harder and accomplish what you set out to do. On behalf of the Rotary Club of Wynberg and the NLC I wish them a wonderful school year,” said Mr Hovstad.
Terrence Klassen, principal of Fairmount High School, said the bursaries go a long way to assist those in need. “We are thankful to the NLC for not only the bursaries but for all the other things they do at the various schools. We are eternally grateful and your contribution really helps our learners,” said Mr Klassen.
Faldiela Chotia, circuit manager from the Western Cape Education Department, said the NLC is playing a big role in uplifting the schools they assist. “These bursaries build the self-esteem of these learners. If it wasn’t for good teachers and principals and the help from organisations some of them might have dropped out of school. These schools serve some of the most vulnerable communities and the parents are really struggling. The funding from WCED is not enough – so contributions such as this is absolutely crucial to assist our schools to run effectively,” said Ms Chotia.
