DELMAS – Learners at Botleng Secondary School will benefit from improved learning conditions after Eskom Kendal Power Station, in partnership with Steinmüller Africa and Siemens Energy, donated essential learning resources during a Mandela Month Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
The donation included 510 desks and chairs, four chalkboards, 1 200 sanitary towels, seven dustbins, and a commitment to install two 360-degree security cameras to improve safety at the school.
The handover ceremony featured performances by the school choir and a gumboot dance group, creating a celebratory atmosphere for learners, educators and guests.
Welcoming the donation, principal Steven Motaung said the intervention would significantly improve teaching and learning.
"There were learners who had to attend lessons without proper desks and chairs. This donation restores their dignity and will boost their confidence. We are currently ranked number one in our circuit this term, and we achieved those results despite having inadequate furniture. Imagine what our learners can achieve now."
Motaung urged learners to take care of the donated resources and encouraged the school choir to continue developing its talent by participating in music competitions.
School Governing Body (SGB) chairperson Zakhele Masilela described the donation as timely and much needed.
"Today we received desks, chairs, chalkboards, sanitary towels and dustbins through the partnership between Eskom Kendal Power Station, Steinmüller Africa and Siemens Energy. The promised surveillance cameras will greatly improve security after the school recently experienced a break-in during which six computers were stolen. The cameras will also help us monitor learner discipline and curb unauthorised access to the school."
Masilela said the shortage of furniture had previously forced some Grade 8 learners to stand throughout the school day, making it difficult for teachers to conduct lessons effectively.
"The learning environment will now be far more conducive, and we will ensure that the furniture is properly maintained."
Speaking to Highveld Chronicle, Kendal Power Station General Manager Tshepiso Temo said Eskom's responsibility extends beyond generating electricity.
"Communities often only see Eskom's power stations but do not always see the opportunities and community support that come with our presence. Today is about demonstrating that we are partners with our communities. We understand their challenges, and where we can assist, we will."
Temo said Kendal Power Station works closely with contractors such as Steinmüller Africa and Siemens Energy to identify community needs and deliver meaningful support.
She said the partnership is guided by the values of Ubuntu, care, respect and sustainability, and extends beyond infrastructure through mentorship programmes, career guidance initiatives and other educational interventions aimed at preparing learners for future employment opportunities.
"We want learners to see a future for themselves. Through partnerships such as these, we hope to help them succeed academically and eventually enter the world of work."
Kendal Power Station Human Resources Manager Nandi Koenabaholo said Eskom recently hosted a career guidance programme attended by several schools, including Botleng Secondary School.
She added that management had committed to rewarding the school's five top-performing learners at the end of the year with laptops to encourage academic excellence.
The donation was welcomed by learners, educators and community members, who said the improved learning resources, enhanced security and continued support from Eskom and its partners would contribute to better academic performance, improved learner discipline and greater opportunities for learners at the school.
