There were smiles all-round as 54 children of Ezimpangeni received their full brand new sets of uniform. As part of Back-to-school campaign programme, Harry Gwala District Municipality in partnership with Sassa was well-received by the learners, principal, workers and parents of Ezimpangeni School under Umzikhulu (ward 9), on the 23^rd April 2024. This initiative not only does it restore the dignity and confidence of the needy, but also enhances the academic and social performance of learners. Deputy Mayor Cllr N. Jojozi, Speaker Cllr MSD Mdunge and the District Manager of SASSA and officials from the involved departments were in awe experiencing so much gratitude and excitement from the community at large. In her keynote address, Deputy Mayor Cllr N Jojozi said; ‘This initiative for me hits home because looking back when we were growing up, such deeds were never a thing. It is not only the child that benefits, but the parents as well as it minimises the financial burden.’

 MR K.E Mbatha of SASSA put emphasis on how the handing out of the uniforms forms part of the roll out Social Relief Programme that serve two purposes – to instil a sense of belonging and pride in the school. As it is, thousands of children across the country do not have the privilege of having one at their disposal and that is the gap that SASSA intends to close. The total amount that was spent on each child is R2700(girl) and R2500(boy).

Parents and the public at large were also informed of other types of grants and assistance that readily available at SASSA.

It is through these programs that the government reaches out to the people with the aim of building a caring society together and to restore some dignity in our children who are faced with embarrassment at not having the proper school attire and that must brace the cold winter days without being dressed warmly.