About 50 pupils from Putellos Primary School in Umbumbulu returned home inspired and excited after they received brand- new school shoes from eThekwini Mayor James Nxumalo today.

The handover of school shoes forms part of the Operation Sukuma Sakhe Programme, which aims to rebuild the fabric of society by promoting human values, fighting poverty, crime, diseases, deprivation and social ills by working together through effective partnerships.

Addressing, learners, teachers and parents who attended the ceremony Nxumalo said education was priority number one for Government.

“We have signed an agreement with the Department of Education, where as the Municipality we can intervene and assist where we can,” he said.

“We will not just fold our arms and do nothing because education is the responsibility of the Provincial or National Government. These are our kids and we want them to come to school feeling confident,” he said.

Nxumalo said they brought the shoes to school especially because it was getting closer to winter.

He encouraged learners from Putellos to dream big and have high aspirations.

“In you we see doctors, ministers and presidents. This will not happen if you don’t take education very seriously and commit yourself.”

Ward 100 Councillor Mbuyiseni Mkhize said they were very grateful for the shoes.

“By the time we get to winter these kids will have proper shoes and that is thanks to our Mayor,” he said.

Phila Dlomo, a representative from the Putellos school governing body said he was lost for words.

“We have many challenges as a school. But we are happy that we are getting help from the Mayor and our Councillor,” he said.

Ends

For more information contact the Municipal Spokesperson, Mr. Thabo Mofokeng, on 031 311 4820 or 082 731 7456 or e-mail thabo1.mofokeng@durban.gov.za

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. Contact Gugu Mbonambi on 031 311 4855/0797514986 or e-mail: gugu.mbonambi@durban.gov.co.za and Princess Nkabane on 0313114818 or e-mail: princess.nkabane@durban.gov.co.za