Community contributions have helped raise R128,000 for two Cape Town schools, Masiphumelele High School and Capella House School, to address specific needs. The funds will be used to sustain a life orientation teacher's position at Masiphumelele High and improve wheelchair access at Capella House. The campaigns, conducted via GetGo Fund, an education crowdfunding platform, highlight the practical support needed to keep teachers in classrooms and help pupils participate in school life.
The Masiphumelele High School community raised R90,000 to supplement the salary of a teacher who provides academic support during school hours and runs a chess programme in the afternoons. The teacher has made a significant impact on pupils, improving their understanding, boosting confidence, and helping those who were struggling catch up with their work. The chess programme also provides a safe and structured environment for pupils to spend their afternoons.
The importance of the teacher's role was emphasized by the school's principal, Skahle Nhlabathi, who warned that losing the teacher would result in larger classes, reduced individual support for pupils, and the possible end of the chess programme. The school's budget constraints meant that government funding did not fully cover the teacher's position, necessitating the fundraising effort.
Meanwhile, at Capella House School, a campaign to improve wheelchair access raised R38,000. The funds will be used to build wider pathways, a moveable access ramp, and upgrade a bathroom. These improvements will enable a pupil who uses a wheelchair to move around the school more easily and participate in school life, including serving as the DJ at the school's Friday Jam sessions.
The wheelchair access improvements are a significant step towards creating a more inclusive learning environment. Currently, teachers carry makeshift wooden platforms between classrooms to facilitate the pupil's movement. The planned ramp will also provide access to the stage, opening up more opportunities for participation.
Donna Sefer, CEO of GetGo Fund, emphasized the importance of supporting teachers and learners. She noted that teachers often identify when a learner needs extra support or when the school environment is hindering participation. Sustained public investment and community contributions are essential to ensure that the needs of schools and learners are met.
The success of these campaigns highlights the impact that community contributions can have on addressing specific needs in schools. The next steps for the two school communities are to sustain the teaching post and complete the planned access improvements, demonstrating the responsibility that comes with community contributions to show where the money goes and what it achieves.
Key points
- Two Cape Town school communities have raised R128,000 via GetGo Fund to support a teacher's salary and improve wheelchair access.
- The funds will be used to sustain a life orientation teacher's position at Masiphumelele High School and improve wheelchair access at Capella House School.
- The campaigns highlight the practical support needed to keep teachers in classrooms and help pupils participate in school life.
