Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) and the Gift of the Givers Foundation have joined forces to restore and enhance Gqala Primary School in Tsholomnqa, Eastern Cape. The school, home to over 150 learners, faced displacement and educational disruptions following the aftermath of gale-force winds in 2023.
The collaboration, valued at R2.5 million saw the reconstruction and refurbishment of the school premises, alongside the provision of essential learning materials and uniforms for the students.
“We are honoured to have been a part of this project and see it come to life beyond a concept. For Mercedes-Benz, it is about more than building our cars, we believe in intentionally impacting our communities, particularly for our future generation. Through this donation, Mercedes-Benz South Africa demonstrates an active interest and investment in accessibility to quality education,” says Abey Kgotle, Executive Director: Human Resources and Corporate Affairs.
The Gift of the Givers Foundation is the largest disaster response non-governmental organisation of African origin on the continent, with the aim to instill hope and restore dignity to the most vulnerable populations.
Since 2022, the Foundation and MBSA have established a demonstratable partnership in addressing socio-economic needs and providing aid to communities affected by natural disasters in Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal (KZN) and the Eastern Cape. By swiftly deploying a trusted disaster relief response team to respond to the aftermath of disaster of gale-force winds at Gqala Primary School, the partnership successfully addressed the immediate and longer-term needs of learners impacted by the natural disaster.
“Our philosophy is to be among the people who benefit mankind. We wish to thank Mercedes-Benz South Africa for the most generous contribution and support in making a difference to the Tsholomnqa community and consider this partnership as a steppingstone towards a positive lasting impact,” said Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of Givers Foundation.
The donation to Gqala Primary School reaffirms Mercedes-Benz South Africa’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. We do not only build cars; we build communities too. By collaborating with the Gift of the Givers Foundation we intend on fostering meaningful community impact and the Gqala Primary School project stands as a testament to this dedication.
