New Denmark Colliery Officially Hands Over Grade R Block

On Wednesday, 14th August 2019, New Denmark Colliery hosted a handover ceremony for the newly built Grade R Block at Ulwazi Primary School in Thutukani, Standerton. This project was funded by NDC as part of its corporate social responsibility programme. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the school, Seriti, Komatsu and the Department of Education.

As part of improving the learning environment, NDC invested an amount of R3,782,491.51 for the infrastructure project which comprises of 2 classrooms, an ablution facility, a kitchen and an official play area. Through this facility, NDC hopes the newly built block will add value to the learning of Grade R learners. Executive Mayor Cllr Lindokuhle Dhlamini emphasised the importance of education in building a strong and productive economy and nation. The Executive Mayor also pledged his commitment to supporting NDC with various CSR initiatives.

Seriti Coal’s CSR programme is aimed at assisting previously disadvantaged communities and includes six pillars including, Education, Portable skills training focusing on youth, Support to host municipality, Health and Sanitation, Poverty Eradication, and Enterprise and Supplier Development. The Chief People Officer, Thabo Masike thanked all the partners for a successful collaboration and added that government requires assistance to eradicate social ills in South Africa. “Seriti Coals aims to leave a lasting legacy” he added.

Circuit Manager Sofie Bohata from the Department of Education emphasised the importance of investing in early childhood learning. It is our duty through such partnerships to ensure we provide conducive learning environment for our children, said Sofia Bohata. This CSR initiative was a collaborative effort with Komatsu, which donated books and furniture. Komatsu’s Transformation Director Dinah Williams thanked Seriti Coal for the partnership and pointing Komatsu to areas in need. She advised the community to treasure the infrastructure as it is a legacy for their children.

Ulwazi Primary School is situated in Thutukani within the Lekwa local Municipality and it caters for approximately 498 learners. The school comprises of 10 classrooms and each accommodates 49 learners.