Isibani Sethemba, a female-owned non-profit organisation, is on a mission to transform the learning environments of rural schools in South Africa. The organisation aims to improve school infrastructure, with a particular focus on providing basic sanitation to students in neglected areas. By partnering with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), Isibani Sethemba works to ensure that learners in these regions have access to safe, clean, and functional facilities.
During a recent visit to Marina, the organisation’s founder, who also hails from the area, was struck by the sight of learners sleeping at school in preparation for exams. “They call it a study camp, but many of these classrooms don’t even have windows, and the doors don’t close properly. Basic sanitation is non-existent,” she said. This prompted her to take immediate action to help, seeing it as an opportunity to give back to her community.
The visit was not just about identifying issues but also about offering encouragement and hope to the learners. “We come from the area, and we went to that school when it was still a primary school. Now, we are in a position to give back and help improve the learning environment for these students,” she added.
Isibani Sethemba’s partnership with local schools plays a critical role in achieving its mission. The schools help the organisation identify specific needs and gaps in sanitation facilities, which then serves as a platform for educating learners and communities about the importance of basic hygiene. This involvement from local schools helps increase support from the DBE, corporate entities, and other NGOs, which can further contribute to better health outcomes and improved educational experiences.
The primary beneficiaries of Isibani Sethemba’s efforts are the learners. By enhancing school infrastructure, the organisation fosters a more positive classroom environment where students feel motivated and safe. The group also aims to assist students in applying for higher education bursaries, expanding their opportunities beyond basic education.
When selecting schools to work with, Isibani Sethemba prioritises those that have been overlooked by the DBE, often relying on community efforts to identify schools in need. The founder stressed the importance of holding the government accountable for improving school conditions in rural areas, particularly in terms of sanitation.
During their visit, the organisation was warmly received by both learners and educators. The smiles, enthusiasm, and willingness of the students to share their experiences left a lasting impression. However, the visit also revealed significant gaps in infrastructure, including a shortage of classrooms, overcrowding, a lack of libraries, and inadequate sanitation. These issues, which are in direct violation of the South African Schools Act, will be brought to the attention of the DBE.
Isibani Sethemba remains committed to being a beacon of hope for rural learners, advocating for improved school facilities and holding authorities accountable to ensure better educational outcomes.
We asking for sleeping sponges donations for 300 matric students as they sleep in classrooms especially during exams;
Contact: Info@isibanisethemba.co.za
