Local News
Uniform Campaign
Back-to-school season marks an important period in every learner's journey, filled with anticipation and excitement. While some eagerly anticipate reuniting with friends, others look forward to making new connections. However, this excitement is often overshadowed by the challenges faced by families with limited financial resources in obtaining essential school gear and stationery.
In South Africa, a significant hurdle arises when children from economically disadvantaged families are unable to attend school due to the financial strain of acquiring school uniforms. This barrier not only hampers their educational aspirations but also severely limits their access to learning opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
Many parents in South Africa find themselves in a difficult situation, needing to put school uniforms on lay-by due to financial constraints, low incomes, and economic pressures. Stores like Ackermans, Pep, and Jet have previously offered lay-by options, allowing parents to select their children's uniforms and pay for them over a period of 3-6 months without incurring interest. The importance of school uniforms extends beyond mere clothing; they promote inclusivity among students and eliminate the pressures of "competitive dressing," thereby reducing conflicts and distractions in the classroom.
Recognizing that some parents were unable to pick up their lay-by items even after the school year had commenced, resulting in students attending school in their old clothes, Fundi Foundation has initiated a nationwide campaign called "BringALittleJoy." The primary aim of this campaign is to alleviate financial burdens and boost the confidence and dignity of learners by assisting parents in paying off and collecting their school lay-bys at Ackermans, PEP, and Jet stores nationwide. The foundation has committed R15,000 towards this campaign to release lay-bys for parents in need.
