The Premier of the Northern Cape, Ms Hazel Jenkins, has taken a decision to extend the 67 minutes for Mandela to an all year - round programme. This decision is based on the fact that the vulnerable and destitute need our assistance throughout the year. Ms Jenkins has therefore been hard at work visiting districts and where the need is most, she has given relief through either providing school children with uniform, handing out toiletries and clothes or in some cases educational toys because education of our children lies close to her heart and should be taken seriously from a young age.
Yesterday saw the Premier visiting the Matsangwane Pre-school in the small community of Vanzylsrus. The Pre-school came as the initiative of two caregivers that felt the children could not just stay at home with no educational stimulation. Currently the pre-school accommodates sixty-three children and the caregivers often go without a salary due to the fact that parents cannot really afford the fees.
Ms Jenkins commended the caregivers for their unselfish sacrifice and committed to continue working with them to see their efforts prosper.” As government, we are proud to have people such as you that realise that the education of our children is important.”
Ms Jenkins spent some time with the little ones and handed them a stove, tables and chairs, a carpet and a computer that will assist in the daily workings of the Pre-school.
One of the caregivers, Ms Sabina Willemse, thanked the Premier for taking the time out to visit them and thanked her for the contribution, “We are grateful to you Premier and my request is that I am a young person and would therefore ask that you assist me in gaining much-needed skills and education that I can use to the benefit of these children.”
The little ones were treated to a hearty meal with the Premier before it was time for them to call it a day. Ms Jenkins will continue this initiative to other areas in the Province.
Released by the Office of the Premier
17 November 2011
Contact person: Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams, 083 447 6586