The Mustadafin Foundation has announced the launch of its annual stationery drive. This drive is a beacon of hope for young learners. Through this initiative, the foundation is helping to equip children with the tools they need to embrace education, break the cycle of poverty and paint a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
A new school year brings the promise of fresh opportunities — a time filled with the excitement of new beginnings, shiny new pencil cases, crisp notebooks and the thrill of opening a box of crayons or colouring pencils. But for thousands of South African children from under-resourced communities, this colourful and hopeful time feels bleak, says the Mustadafin Foundation.
According to the Department of Basic Education (DBE), South Africa faces a staggering school dropout rate, with an estimated 40% of learners failing to complete Grade 12. Even more concerning, 81% of Grade 4 learners struggle to read for meaning in any language. These challenges are often exacerbated by a lack of access to basic resources — stationery, textbooks and school uniforms — that should be fundamental to education, not a privilege.
Ghairunisa Johnstone Cassiem, Director of the Mustadafin Foundation, says, "Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, yet too many children are left behind simply because they don't have a pencil to write with. The stationery drive is not just about school supplies; it's about giving every child a fair chance to build a career and ultimately a good future for themselves."
The foundation says that the stationery drive invites individuals, businesses and organisations to make a tangible difference by sponsoring a learner. With contributions starting at just R300, sponsors can help provide:
- Starter Pack (R300) — Basic stationery essentials.
- Stationery Pack (R500) — A comprehensive stationery bundle.
- Uniform Pack (R500) — A full school uniform to restore dignity and confidence.
Together, we can ensure every child has the tools they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond, the foundation says.
"Every child deserves the opportunity to learn without barriers," Johnstone Cassiem adds. "By donating to this initiative, you're not only giving a child a backpack filled with stationery — you're giving them hope, confidence and the belief that they, too, can succeed."
The foundation concludes that donations can be made to Mustadafin Foundation, Standard Bank, Branch Code 025909, Account No 072 778 377, or visit 154 Antelope Street to drop off items.
For more information, visit www.mustadafin.org.za. You can also follow the Mustadafin Foundation on Facebook.
*Image courtesy of contributor