Mzimpofu- MTN Eswatini foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development Microprojects have successfully implemented the construction of an ablution facility at St Joseph Primary School.
The project was officially opened by The Ministry of Education and training, Principal Secretary Bheki Gama, along with representative from Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, Microproject Director Sibusiso Mbingo and CEO for Eswatini MTN Wandile Mtshali. During the handover ceremony Principal Secretary, Bheki Gama stated that “I have seen for myself how old, outdated, dilapidated, insufficient and hazardous the school’s toilets are, the children were exposed to many hazards such as unhealthy environment and snakes, for that very reason we as Ministry of Education extend gratitude towards work done by MTN foundation together with the Ministry of Economic planning”. It cannot be over emphasized that this project will go a long way in meeting the numerous school infrastructure needs, it is on this premise that the Ministry is very delighted and has a great reason to celebrate this great partnership.
Mbingo mentioned that “l am grateful for the partnership we have established with MTN foundation, the Ministry of Economic Planning and the Ministry of Education, as today we witnessed the grand opening of this beautiful toilets structure. What has brought us more joy is the fact that the structure includes toilets designed for disabled children, as well as the standard and beauty of the structure, which was set very high. When you enter inside, you get to see the beautiful sinks, the urinals, its top quality as it is exactly what the school needs, for something that would last for years to come. He further thanked MTN for choosing this special school that includes disabled children and also hopes that in the near future this partnership continues with other projects.
The learners expressed their joy through poetry, which was wonderful and also demonstrates hard work put by the teachers to ensure that student get to learn certain things despite their certain limitations. Mshali, MTN CEO expressed his joy upon seeing the performance of students and encouraged them to request other help with which MTN Foundation can assist. He also noted how St Joseph was selected carefully so as not to waste resources and wanted accountability throughout construction. He further extended his heartfelt gratitude to the school administration, teachers, parents and the community at large for their unwavering support and encouragement.
During interview with the school principal, Ncedile Magagula -Dlamini, she thanked the work done by the organisations and expressed the troubles faced by disabled students who had to rely on their peers in assisting each other to relieve themselves as previous toilets were not easily accessible to them. She also highlighted on the issue of admission to the institution, that sometimes parent would come for admission but be forced to reject them due to their conditions, which you find that they will be needing more care as compared to others, she wishes that the school get more care givers to handle such situations as every child deserves to be at school.
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