Twenty-one learners at Hendrik Tseib Primary School in Keetmanshoop have benefited from a school shoe donation worth N$5,300 courtesy of MTC.

Keetmanshoop Mayor Emrico Blaauw handed over the donation at a ceremony held in the town on Thursday.

Hendrik Tseib Primary School is one of the town's newly established schools, which opened on 19 January this year.

Blaauw explained that the donation stems from an initiative implemented under a memorandum of understanding signed between the Keetmanshoop Municipality and MTC in 2024.

“This gesture goes beyond providing school; it restores dignity, it builds confidence, and it gives our children hope. Every child deserves the opportunity to attend school feeling comfortable, confident, and ready to learn, regardless of their family financial circumstances.”

Blaauw further commended MTC for demonstrating that corporate responsibility is not merely a commitment on paper but a practical investment in the future of children and their community.

Acting School Principal Lorraine Rooi said the school opened with 202 learners but currently has 197, as some learners have not returned to school.

Rooi said the school faces resource challenges, including shortages of school uniforms, stationery, and office equipment, as well as the need for a soup kitchen.

Despite these challenges, she said support from the regional education directorate, donations from other institutions, and contributions from staff members' own pockets have helped the school continue providing learners with the best possible education.

“We are very grateful to our previous donors. Councillor Ulrich Dawids donated school uniforms a few months ago, while UNAM donated school stationery yesterday. Now, Councillor Emrico Blaauw, through MTC, has sponsored us with new school shoes.”