Kumba's Sishen, Thabazimbi and Kolomela mines, as well as its Saldana Bay port operation, donated schoolbags filled with stationary to learners in 52 schools in the Limpopo, Northern and Western Cape provinces. The three operations collectively spent R1.2m to buy the bags and to stock it with a pencil bag, ruler, pencil crayons, ballpoint pens, an eraser, pencils, a glue stick and wax crayons.
Kumba's intention is to ensure that the company contributes towards encouraging and supporting learners particularly at foundation phases to enjoy their school life with focus, and most importantly to prepare new comers to settle and adjust to formal primary school.
"I am quite happy with the gesture from Kumba. Indeed, these are the fruits of our campaign to mobilise public-private partnerships in the provision of opportunities for our children. Kumba is once again demonstrating that it is a reliable, trusted and a committed partner in this relationship. We hope that others will follow suit moving forward," said MEC of Education in the Northern Cape, Grizelda Cjiekella.
Kumba has already invested R18m in early childhood development for children up to Grade R and R35.8m on primary, high school and tertiary education in communities around its operations in the past year. Kumba also made notable strides in adding value to education systems with teacher and learner interventions, while more funds were injected into science laboratory buildings, mobile laboratories and technology kits for local schools.
Norman Mbazima, chief executive of Kumba, notes that this is part of the company's commitment to support and strengthen education. "We believe that giving these children the opportunity to get excited about school will contribute to motivating them to continue their education and finish school. A good education is a solid foundation for learners to have a promising future."
