Nompumelelo appeals for urgent repairs to its facilities

COMMUNITY NEWS - Nompumelelo Educare in Thembalethu is appealing for urgent assistance with the repairs to its facilities after the heavy rainfall in May had caused significant damage to the classrooms, leaving parts of the building unusable and affecting the care of 29 children.

The George Municipality originally established the early childhood development (ECD) centre, based at 5889 Qhawa Street, Zone 9, in 2003 in response to the need for safe childcare in the community. The late principal Bulelwa Kumani was in charge of the centre then.

The current principal, Andile Maduna, said since taking over in May last year, the centre has grown from just seven children to 51 registered learners due to an increased demand and also the growing trust that the community places in the school.

She said the leaking in the classrooms had worsened during the heavy rains.

"The classes were flooded, and this has affected 29 children directly. We also need support to keep our doors open and ensure that our five staff members can continue to provide for their families through the stipends they receive."

According to Maduna, the centre previously received funding from the Department of Basic Education (DBE), but this lapsed a few years ago. At present, the school relies solely on minimal learner fees.

The damp is affecting the walls. Photo: Supplied

"We serve a poor community, so our fees are low and cannot cover everything we need to fix the centre. If it is not fixed, we will not meet the requirements to re-register for funding from the DBE."

She appeals to the public and businesses for assistance with urgent repairs, especially the leaking roof, but also to ensure the continued operation of the facility.

Potential donors may send an email to [email protected].

The leaking worsened since the recent heavy rainfall.