In 2022, a devoted and concerned teacher at Thandokwethu Primary, Nikaya Shaikh, contacted IRSA asking for support for the extremely dilapidated school. IRSA says that when it visited the school, it found every single window broken, walls with such large holes that the outside could be seen, and through which rain would flood the classrooms, hazardous asbestos roofing and absolutely no running water or sanitation. 

With financial support from Islamic Relief Canada, IRSA says it embarked on a mission to revitalise the school. The rehabilitation project included extensive infrastructural improvements such as the installation of vital water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities, secure fencing, upgraded classroom environments and the creation of a safe play area.

Beyond infrastructure, IRSA says it also invested in crucial teacher training and essential learning resources, fostering a more conducive and stimulating educational environment.

"There were holes in the roof, the rain would come in, and children couldn't come to school, goats would come and sleep in the open classes. We didn't even have doors on the classrooms, we used to use an old chalkboard to close off the doorway. Now we have a space for the kids to learn well. We are probably the only school in an area like this that has proper roofing and ceramic tiles and that has a library. This is unheard of in communities like ours. We never thought this would be possible. We can't thank Islamic Relief enough," says Thandokwethu Primary School Principal, Mrs Zulu.

IRSA says another key component of the project was the installation of a borehole at the school, providing a sustainable source of clean water not only for the learners and staff but also for the broader Dududu community of approximately 2 000 people.

The official opening of the new library coincided with a visit by a group of volunteers from Islamic Relief Canada, as part of its Inspire — Volunteer Abroad programme. This visit offered the Canadian volunteers an opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible transformation at Thandokwethu Primary School and to engage directly with the learners, educators and community members, says the organisation. 

IRSA concludes that it served as a poignant affirmation of the power of global solidarity, and the enduring legacy of service in creating dignified safe and inspiring learning spaces for children in vulnerable communities. 

For more information, visit www.islamic-relief.org.za. You can also follow IRSA on Facebook, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor