In efforts to promote academic excellence among learners, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, led by MEC Super Zuma, in his capacity as the MEC champion of uMkhanyakude District together with Mrs N.I. Vilakazi, Head of the Department for Social Development, handed over school uniforms to over 200 learners in the Manguzi area under the uMkhanyakude District on Tuesday, 30 January 2024.

MEC Zuma remarked that the government has implemented measures to ensure that children from underprivileged backgrounds receive assistance and full support for their development. He also said that children should not be afraid to attend school merely because they cannot afford the whole school outfit.

According to MEC Zuma, "family circumstances should never influence how a learner appears at school because all students should be treated equally, irrespective of socio-economic status."

The beneficiary schools include Phakamani Primary School and Julukani Primary School. Mhlupheki High School, Emfihlweni Primary School, Masulumane Primary School and Thandizwe Primary School are all under uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality.

MEC Super Zuma further engaged with school governing bodies and educators, praising their hard work to better the lives of the learners in schools.

According to MEC Zuma, there is much poverty in and around the schools. This is one of the reasons he will also initiate the One School, One Garden project in all schools that he visited.

Hon. MEC Super Zuma noted that school gardens are an excellent method to augment learners' diets. The extra nutrients from vegetables will boost students’ ability to concentrate and perform better.

#IndlalaSoyiqedaIguqeNgamadolo