On 21 January 2014, the 35th Mandela Day container library was opened at Thuto Ke Tsela Primary School in Frankfort in the Free State.
Thuto Ke Tsela is the largest of five primary schools in the Frankfort area, with approximately 1 300 learners, a Principal, two Deputy Principals, five heads of department and 45 teachers.
There was excitement in the air on the morning of the opening, since the library itself, which had been beautifully painted by learners, was covered in a soft, red cloth, waiting to be unveiled once the facility was officially handed over to the school.
The library was sponsored by a host of companies, including the 466/64 Bangle project, Old Mutual’s joBerg2c project and Breadline Africa, many of whom sent representatives to the opening event.
Two joBerg2c riders, Andrew Fussell and James Burgess, were invited, along with Mr Robert Coutts from 466/64, staff members from Old Mutual, Ms Tembi Tyuku from Soul Buddyz, SGB Chairperson Mr F Moloi, and Ms Cleon Lategan from Breadline Africa.
While the container itself was sponsored by the 466/64 Bangle project, co-sponsors donated over 800 books to the library, which were placed on the shelves by the joBerg2c riders.
Mr T Zimu, Principal, and Mr Mabuya conducted the opening ceremony, both assuring guests that the library will be used to its fullest extent. They both spoke about the school being privileged to have been selected as a container library recipient, the first stepping stone to many great things for the school and its learners.
Lebo, a Grade 6 learner, then recited an inspiring poem about the importance of books and education, and members of the school’s Soul Buddyz club performed a drama piece about using books to improve lives.
The joberg2c riders then handed the Principal a pair of scissors, and he officially opened the container library.