St Mary’s Anglican Church donates school shoes to four primary schools in Bekkersdal
Thabo Motlhabi
St Mary’s Anglican Church in Bekkersdal, under the leadership of Priest-in-Charge Reverend Seipate Khomane, recently hosted an Education Sunday programme on February 1, 2026, the event aimed at supporting learners through donations to four primary schools in the Bekkersdal community.
Inspired by the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” Reverend Khomane, herself a product of township struggles, understands firsthand the challenges faced by the learners who lack basic necessities. As a mother, community leader, and spiritual guide, she initiated the Education Sunday programme to involve not only the church but also the broader Bekkersdal community in supporting education.
Schools as Beneficiaries for School Shoe Donation were:
*Ipeleng Primary School
* Maputle Primary School
* Seattle Primary School
* Isixalo Primary School
The main objective of the event was to promote education while addressing practical challenges faced by learners and educators at the primary school level. Through this initiative, the church donated school shoes to four primary schools, ensuring that learners can attend school with dignity and confidence. The programme also acknowledged the dedication of educators who often go beyond teaching to care for the well-being of learners despite limited resources.
Speaking at the event, Reverend Khomane said, “Education sharpens our character, and that is where integrity is formed. Knowledge teaches us wisdom. Learners and teachers should not lose hope. I encourage educators not to give up despite the challenges they face and urge parents to continue supporting them. These school shoes are important to our learners – they help them to feel dignified and confident, boost their self-esteem, and encourage regular school attendance.”
Education Sunday is an annual initiative observed by St Mary’s Anglican Church across all its branches, taking place on the first Sunday of February to celebrate and promote education.
As a founder of Exclusive Inclusive, Miss Clerah Sethole also addressed the gathering, saying, “I’m here to motivate both learners and educators, including the community at large. This initiative is meant to encourage our learners and inspire them to do better. We are all responsible for their education. While learners may be different, they must be treated equally and with respect. These donations symbolize unity between the community and the church.”
At the conclusion of the programme, learners from the four primary schools received pairs of school shoes and acts that brought visible joy and excitement, leaving many smiles on young learners’ faces.