21 mini libraries and 100 loose books for the school’s library were donated to Carter Primary school by Sun International in partnership with Read to Rise an organization that writes kiddies book ‘Oaky’ it also has book ownership program. The organization works mainly in Mitchel’s Plain in Western Cape (45 schools) and Soweto (30 schools) “we were approached by Sun International they wanted to sponsor Carter” explained Steve Tsakiris Read to Rise program manager. Grade 3 and 4’s was given their own Oaky books to take home to read.
In total 1600 books were donated to Carter Primary School.
The principal of Carter Primary school Mr Peter Makgatho explained how he developed a relationship with Sun International “ My relationship with Sun International came through Partners With Possibility, they select some principal in Gauteng and partner them with business leaders to teach principal to run the school as a business. I was given a person from Sun International Zoleka Skweyika as a business partner and we developed a relationship. The partners at their own convenience would visit schools to see the needs of the school. In my case I told Sun International we have a challenge of reading and reading with understanding.” Explained principal Makgoba.
In many cases books are just donated to schools but on this case books donated fit the level/age of the kids.
“If kids can’t read, it would be hard for them to understand subjects being taught.” Said Makgoba.
Heidie Edson Group ECD SUN International said “We joined the journey with Carter Primary school and Read To Rise and donated books and mini libraries to the pupils from grade R to 6 we’ve also partnered with the two stake holders for early childhood development (ECD). This is not the last day we’ll be coming to the school. We’ll continue with the partnership. Also, Carter is just 13 mins away from Sun International’s head office and it’s good we participate in community that we serve.”
School Governing Body (SGB) chairperson Ntate Malatsi pleaded with parents to take a good care of the books and make sure their kids read them “ We’re so happy for getting books, as they will have a huge impact in kids learning to read and getting to understand the English language. Subjects like maths literacy need one to know how to read and read with understanding in order to answer the questions. Parents should keep a good care of the books and stop being ignorant.” Said Malatsi.
In 2020 a new program is going to be introduced at the school (Drop All And Read-DAAR) to initiate a culture of reading.
