RICHARD Mabaso (left) the CEO and founder of the Imbumba Foundation; Sushie Munsamy, Independent Newspapers’ CSI Assistant; Sameera Kareem, Independent Newspapers’ CSI manager and co-ordinator, and Siza Majola, the principal of Ningizimu Special School.
Image: TUMI PAKKIES/ Independent Newspapers
The halls of Ningizimu Special School in Montclair, Durban, were filled with more than just the sound of learning on Monday; they came alive with the vibrant energy of creativity, talent and the launch of a groundbreaking partnership.
To commemorate World Milk Day, the Daily News Milk Fund and the Imbumba Foundation officially joined forces and hosted a celebration at the school, to acknowledge their partnership and highlight the importance of milk as a nutritional food source.
The collaboration marked the coming together of two organisations with established track records in community upliftment, aiming to foster a long-term commitment to empowering some of society’s most vulnerable members.
Founded in August 1980 by the late Sibongile Constance Ngubane in Lamontville, Ningizimu Special School was born out of a critical need to provide quality education to intellectually impaired learners.
What began with just eight students has since transformed into a beacon of hope for 567 learners presently.
The school is now located at 63 Kenyon Howden Road in Montclair and serves as a central hub for families across the region, with pupils travelling from Umlazi, Isipingo, Marianhill and Clermont to access the specialised education they require.
Today, Ningizimu operates through the dedication and commitment of 45 educators and its school governing body, despite financial constraints and the complexities of managing a large learner population. These challenges include ensuring the safe daily transportation of pupils between their homes and the school.
Monday’s event provided attendees with a rare insight into daily life at the school. Despite facing challenges ranging from intellectual disabilities to autism spectrum disorders, the learners took centre stage to demonstrate their mastery of various vocational and artistic skills.
On display were artworks and handcrafted items created by the pupils, including intricate woodwork, beadwork and stylish furniture pieces such as headboards and ottomans.
Learners also showcased their talents in food preparation, hairdressing and massage therapy. The highlight of the day was the school’s marimba group, whose rhythmic and spirited performance left the audience moved and inspired.
The event marked the first instalment of the partnership between the Daily News Milk Fund and the Imbumba Foundation, combining the Milk Fund’s long-standing commitment to nutritional support with the Imbumba Foundation’s expertise in social innovation and mentorship.
During the handover, facilitated by the partners, the school received bulk supplies of milk and porridge, dignity packs and several other essential items from its wishlist.
One of the partnership’s goals is to extend similar support to communities across the province.
SKT Majola, the school’s principal, expressed his appreciation.
"On behalf of our learners, parents and staff, we extend our deepest thanks to the Daily News Milk Fund and the Imbumba Foundation.
"Thank you for investing in our children. You are not just providing meals and essentials; you are restoring dignity, fuelling dreams and building the future," said Majola.
Richard Mabaso, founder and CEO of the Imbumba Foundation, said: "A massive thank you to the Milk Fund.
"The Imbumba Foundation is proud of this groundbreaking partnership, uniting our efforts to uplift, protect and empower the most vulnerable among us. Thank you for demonstrating the understanding that a community is only as strong as the compassion of its members.
"Every act of service, no matter how big or small, creates a ripple effect of hope and support. Thank you also to the school for creating an environment where everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive abilities, has equal access, value and a voice."
Lindiwe Mvubu, the school’s head of skills development, highlighted the practical benefits for the students.
"Our educators were filled with smiles upon receiving the chafing dishes for our Food Production Class, the relaxers and hair clippers for our Hairdressing Class, and the wool for our Sewing Class.
"These essential tools directly empower our students, allowing our school to continue excelling in skills development," she said.
DAILY NEWS