As part of its Mandela Day initiative, the Faculty of Engineering has launched a donation drive to raise funds to renovate an overcrowded local orphanage.
Started with three orphans in Nyanga in 1994, Emasithandane Children’s Organization is a home for 29 vulnerable children. The home consists of three very small bedrooms in addition to few common rooms.
Emasithandane not only meets the children’s basic needs such as clothing, shelter, education and food but also offers them a nurturing environment, which facilitates their personal growth and holistic development in the face of extreme odds.
The Engineering Faculty’s Luvuyo Kakaza says that they decided on an institution which caters for children’s needs as a response to the need to instil a sense of hope and convey a message that there are people who care.
“Today’s the launch of the project to raise donations for renovations and upgrades at the home, including creating study areas,” said Kakaza.
“We want to create a safe environment which is also conducive for learning.”
He added that the drive will continue in the next three to four months and donations can be made through a CPUT bank account or by purchasing a CPUT Mandela Month button for R20.
There’s also a Fun Run/Walk which will take place on July 29 and registration is open to all members of the public and all proceeds will be donated to Emasithandane. To register for the event one may click on the link.
Hazel Maposela, Finance Officer at Emasithandane, thanked CPUT for the gesture and says it addresses some of their challenges such as lack of safety and overcrowding.
She added that the home needs funds to pay salaries to its staff complement of nine employees as it only receives donations for food.
Written by Kwanele Butana
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