DELMAS – Rietkol Primary School learners were treated to a heartwarming surprise on November 13, 2024, when Tlou Coal generously donated brand-new school uniforms, bringing much-needed hope and dignity to the learners. This meaningful gesture highlights the company’s deep-rooted commitment to corporate social responsibility and their dedication to supporting education in local communities.
Bonke Ntimane, Tlou Coal’s Chief Operations Officer (COO) said Tlou Coal’s investment in the learners of Rietkol School goes beyond donating school uniforms. “It’s about empowering future leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” Ntimane said.
“As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘education is the most powerful weapon to change the world’. We’re not just planting seeds for a brighter future, but also nurturing compassionate, confident young people. To our learners, remember that this uniform is just the beginning believe in yourselves, dream big, and never lose sight of your potential. You are the future doctors, engineers, and leaders who will shape our world.”
Tlou Coa presented brand-new uniforms to deserving learners.
“This act of kindness embodies the company’s dedication to empowering young learners and uplifting the local community. By providing essential school attire, Tlou Coal helps alleviate financial burdens on families and promotes a culture of equality and inclusivity among students,” said Ntimane.
In a statement, the company further explained the motivation behind this generous gesture: “This Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative aims to promote educational inclusivity, dignity, and equality. A total of 46 learners from the Foundation Phase (Grade R to Grade 3) benefited. Rietkol was chosen as the beneficiary for our CSI initiative due to its pressing needs. Rietkol Primary serves a historically disadvantaged community within our host area, requiring targeted support to bridge the educational gap. By supporting this school, we aim to create a lasting positive impact on the community,” the statement read.
“This gesture demonstrates our commitment to supporting local communities, in line with our company mission to create sustainable, high-quality employment and a lasting positive impact in local communities. The provision of school uniforms to Rietkol Primary is one step towards realising our company mission,” added Busisiwe Sikhonde, Tlou Coal Human Resource Officer.
Jabulani Sibanyoni, Rietkol Primary School chair told the paper that he is extremely grateful to Tlou Coal for their generous donation of school uniforms to the learners.
“As chairperson of Rietkol School, I’ve witnessed first-hand the struggles our learners face, particularly those from farming communities where parents often struggle to make ends meet. Tlou Coal’s kindness brings hope and dignity to these learners,” he said. “Their investment in our children’s education will have a lasting impact and inspire other stakeholders to follow suit.”
Tlou Coal’s ongoing efforts to make a positive impact in the community are evident through this initiative.
