AMATIKWE, INANDA, KZN
In 2017, history was made as we established the first school library at Sophunga Primary School, sponsored by the AES Charitable Trust, with Foundation Phase classroom book corners sponsored by FMI (now Bidvest Life). Two brand new air conditioners were also sponsored by the AES Charitable Trust, making the library environment even better for the school’s aspiring readers.
Every few years, as part of our sustainability programme, we aim to revamp existing LEARN libraries to bring them up to the standard of our latest libraries. On 17 November 2022, we celebrated the revamp of the Sophunga Primary School Intersen library, proudly sponsored by South African Bulk Terminals (SABT). A vibrant celebratory assembly was attended by the team from SABT, The LEARN Project team, volunteers, community members and the school’s circuit manager and Elits District official, with readings, drama plays, dance and motivational speeches.
580
LEARNERS
1
LIBRARY
10
BOOK CORNERS
2727
BOOKS
Transformation takes teamwork
The library was completely renovated and received a boost of 500 additional books and new educational resources. This library has a new, dedicated librarian, with a passion for literacy, who attended our LEARN Librarian Training course. Library monitors have also been trained and great progress has been noted within the library and the positive effect it has been having on the culture of reading within the school. We are proud of the school’s partnership with donor school DPHS which has been successfully running for a number of years. Each September, we celebrate National Book Week with the Sophunga Grade 3 learners and teachers visiting DPHS for a day of fun-filled reading activities. A buddy system is set up, partnering the Grade 3 learners from both schools.
”“I would like to thank the sponsors for a wonderful library that has been established for us. Our learners will benefit greatly from this revamped library and we now have a timetable to ensure all Intersen learners have access to the library. No words can explain how grateful we are.”
— MRS QWABE, ACTING PRINCIPAL
A picture speaks a thousand words
From start to completion, this is Sophunga’s transformation story.
