VEZUBUHLE – Hlonipha Secondary School has received 20 learner chairs from Phola Mall to improve classroom conditions and support teaching and learning.
The donation, made on 22 June 2026, formed part of the mall's community outreach programme and was coordinated with Ward 18 Councillor Nomvula Mtshweni, who attended the handover ceremony.
Phola Mall Centre Manager Dukes Masanabo said the mall has been supporting under-resourced schools since opening in 2017.
"It's all about supporting under-resourced schools and creating a better learning environment for learners. This kind of support also strengthens the relationship with the community," Masanabo said.
He explained that Hlonipha Secondary was selected after submitting a request through Phola Mall's community support programme.
"Our support is not based on different criteria. We welcome requests from community members, community leaders, schools and organisations. Every request is captured on our system and assessed fairly," Masanabo said.
Acting Principal Lukhele Mauris welcomed the donation, saying it came at the right time because many of the school's chairs were broken.
"The chairs we were using before were not in good condition for learners. Some were broken. This donation will help us improve teaching and learning because learners will now have proper chairs," Mauris said.
Ward 18 Councillor Nomvula Mtshweni said the donation reflected the partnership between the mall and the community.
She said schools depend largely on government funding and often struggle to replace damaged furniture.
"As we understand that our schools are depending on grants from the Department, they cannot afford to buy furniture for everyone, and our kids vandalise this furniture. They are really in need of furniture," she said.
Mtshweni encouraged learners to look after the new furniture so that future learners could also benefit.
"As a councillor, I have a passion for our kids and always support education. I am saying to these young leaders to take care of this furniture and protect it for future learners at Hlonipha Secondary School over the coming 10 years," she said.
Masanabo said the donation would contribute to improved classroom discipline, learner dignity and a better learning environment.
He said Phola Mall would continue supporting education initiatives across Thembisile Hani Local Municipality through programmes such as its Back-to-School campaign and school shoe donation drives.
He also encouraged other businesses to partner with communities to help address needs that government resources alone could not meet.
"Government cannot transform the lives of our citizens alone; it takes a united effort from businesses, communities and individuals working together," Masanabo said.
