On Monday, Deputy Minister for Public Service and Administration, Ms. Pinky Kekana, handed over school uniforms to learners at Strydom Secondary School in Thaba Nchu, located 65 km east of Bloemfontein in the Free State. This generous donation was made possible by the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS).
Founded in 1969 as a teacher’s college, the school was later converted into a high school that predominantly serves pupils from Zone 1 and 2 in Thaba Nchu. The school currently enrolls 798 learners. Free State Education Mangaung Metro District Director, Mr. December Moloi, shared that the school has consistently achieved a pass rate of over 85% for the past five years, thanks to the dedication of both the teaching staff and the active involvement of parents in the School Governing Body (SGB).
Deputy Minister Kekana emphasized the importance of the donation, stating that it ensures “learners from disadvantaged backgrounds can access education without the indignity of worn-out or torn uniforms.” She added, “This donation also helps learners stay focused on their studies and personal growth.”
Dr. Stan Moloabi, a Thaba Nchu native and Principal Officer at GEMS, expressed that the donation would not only boost the recipients’ confidence but would likely contribute to an improved pass rate.
Strydom Secondary School Principal Mr. Silas Maseloa thanked the Deputy Minister for the generous gesture and expressed his commitment to raising the school’s pass rate.
The Deputy Minister also visited Ereskuld Primary School, located in the same town, to assess the learning environment and address challenges that affect teaching. The school, with 155 pupils, faces difficulties such as a teacher shortage, the relocation of parents leading to reduced funding, and ongoing vandalism. Deputy Minister Kekana pledged to raise these concerns with the relevant authorities as the District Development Model champion of the Mangaung Metro and promised to return for follow-up visits.
Deputy Minister Kekana’s visit and donation to the Thaba Nchu learners reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to improving access to education, as highlighted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his 2025 State of the Nation Address: “Central to our efforts to end poverty and develop our economy is providing decent, quality education to every young South African.”
