The Pavilion Shopping Centre donated 230 pairs of school shoes to Chesterville Secondary School pupils. Picture: Shelley Kjonstad
A Durban ward councillor has urged businesses to support schools in their area.
Ward 24 councillor Mtha Makhathini made the plea after the Pavilion shopping centre responded to his request for school shoes for pupils at Chesterville Secondary School and donated 230 pairs of shoes.
Julie-Anne Zuma, The Pavilion’s Marketing Manager said the centre was happy to assist.
“We understand that charity begins at home. For us, that means the community of Chesterville, which is right on our doorstep,” said
“When the proactive community leader, Councillor Makhathini, approached us asking for help for new shoes for the learners, we were delighted to assist.”
Makhathini urged businesses to lend a hand to schools in the area and follow the example set by the Pavilion shopping centre and other businesses.
He revealed that local companies have donated a total of 850 pairs of school shoes to four schools in the area.
Chesterville Secondary School principal, Sicelo Mncube, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting how it would impact the students’ morale and attendance.
“We really appreciate the contribution from the donors. Their kindness will go a long way,” Mncube said.
“Sometimes learners get teased for not having proper shoes, and at times, they avoid attending school because of worn-out footwear. This donation will literally take the kids off the streets and bring them into the classroom.”
Makhathini praised the school’s educators for their dedication, pointing out that Chesterville Secondary achieved a 100% matric pass rate for the first time in its 71-year history.
“All schools in Ward 24 performed exceptionally well last year. We need to celebrate our teachers for doing an amazing job under severe pressure,” he said.
“We have held celebratory occasions for management and teachers at both secondary schools in the area, Chesterville and Umkhumbane, so that educators can network and collaborate.”
Mncube added that the school still faces challenges, including broken windows, doors and roofing issues.