TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG – THE United Nations Information Centre in Pretoria (UNIC) and the Gauteng Department of Education will embark on an ongoing drive to provide desk-bags to under-privileged children in South Africa.

The project, to be launched on Thursday, will begin with learners from Sefako Makgatho Primary School in Atteridgeville, Pretoria West and continue for the duration of the year.

According to UNIC Pretoria, the aim of the project is restore the dignity of the African child and empower them to learn in a way that is meaningful, fun, comfortable and exciting.

“The project being in the week when the world marks Mandela Day, espouses the spirit of Tata Madiba, who aspired for better and good quality education for children,” the centre said.

According to research conducted by deskbags.co.za, more than 3 million children in South Africa still use the ground as a surface to write on. Some use their lap.

This results in them becoming tired, uncomfortable and dirty.

It is envisaged the desk-bags would further empower and develop learners early childhood development skills as children can use the desk-bags at home to complete their homework, colour, paint and draw.
– Guardian