Just a few days ahead of the school holidays the Department of Education programme, Care and Support for Teaching and Learning (CSTL), which employed Learner Support Agent (LSA) held a great send-off for Mtyobo Primary School pupils.
The school held a Christmas party for a group of 25 pupils who were given mostly food as gifts. Even though the school only selected 25 pupils from the many, school principal, Mava Booi, explained that CSTL and LSA support a huge number of vulnerable pupils at the school.
School teacher, Nosisa Sigwabe, who was the master ceremonies clarified that the selection of pupils rotates every year.
“My children, LSA loves you. That is why it made you a Christmas party, but next year we will select others. But, if we see the need, we will consider you again,” she said.
According to Booi the school’s focus on selection looked more to those who were from poor backgrounds which is the main objective of the programme.
Some of the gifts received by pupils included fresh chicken meat, drinks and cosmetics. Booi further stated that the programme provided moral and academic support to pupils throughout the year.
“This agent often visits these kids’ home, dangerous as it is. She looks at their situations at home,” he said.
CSTL, together with LSA work with the Department of Home Affairs, SAPS and Social Development so that should any of these kids’ problems require their help they will be able to intervene.
Booi extended his sincere thanks to the sponsors who made the party possible. “We want to thank Kekkel en Kraai, Josh Clothing Store, Mrs Ntintili Delima, Mrs Mjuza Nolwando and Ward 5 Councillor Andile Marasi for supporting us,” he said.