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Unisa visits KwaShange Primary School in honour of Mandela Day

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Group photo of Unisa Staff, KwaShange Primary School educators and community members

Reflecting on how profoundly he valued education, Nelson Mandela said: "It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mine worker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another."

On 18 July 2025, the KwaZulu-Natal Region of Unisa, in partnership with the Msunduzi Municipality, visited KwaShange Primary School in Pietermaritzburg to donate chairs, desks and cleaning detergents as part of its Mandela Day contribution. This initiative marked a remarkable contribution towards ensuring that the legacy of Nelson Mandela continues to make a tangible impact.

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Unisa staff

When asked why KwaShange Primary School was chosen for the 2025 Mandela Day project, Unisa student advisor Thuso Mosiea explained: "Mandela believed in the spirit of growth. KwaShange Primary School was chosen because it is part of an under-resourced community where learners deal with issues outside of the classroom on a daily basis. Our aim was to support the school by focusing on real needs, thereby empowering learners and investing meaningfully in their future."

The event was made possible by the inspiring involvement of Unisa staff, Ward 4 Councillor Mlungisi Zondi, and the Deputy Mayor of the Msunduzi Municipality, Councillor Mxolisi Mkhize, who all rolled up their sleeves to clean and paint the school. Expressing his gratitude, Mlungisi Sithole, the school principal, said: "I cannot find words to adequately express how appreciative I am of what Unisa and the Msunduzi Municipality have done for our school today."

Addressing everyone present, Councillor Mkhize emphasised the importance of serving with a willing heart, even beyond Mandela Day. With collaboration, commitment and proactive leadership in education, Mandela’s words – "Education is the great engine of personal development" – can be an ongoing reality.

* By Mxolisi Nxumalo and Slindokuhle Dlamini, Communication and Marketing Interns, KwaZulu-Natal Region

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Publish date: 2025-08-12 00:00:00.0

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