Rotary Club Contributes to Literacy Project in Africa

Dear friends,

It's back to school for 40 excited senior citizens in Gamalakhe who received their Adult Basic Literacy and Training packs at the Zibambeleni Old Age Day Care Centre this week, courtesy of the Rotary Clubs of Port Shepstone, Dunedin Florida USA and Sandvika Rotary Club in Norway in Association with Operation Upgrade.

Our friends of Rotary in Norway, especially from Fagerborg Secondary School, who have channelled their R40 000.00 donation through GDC (Gamalakhe Development Centre), have generously contributed towards the project and are thanked profusely for their generosity. The total budget of some R75000.00 to bring effect to the teaching of these 40 learners, is in place. 

It is the intention of the Rotary Clubs involved to further apply for a Global Grant from The Rotary Foundation, starting in July 2013. This will see a roll out of many more such projects and not only straight forward basic adult education but equipping centres with the practical physical needs like desks, chairs etc, needed to teach basic adult life skill literacy.

Two young community based individuals — Zodwa Xolo and Nomonde Shude —have been specially trained to educate the senior citizens is basic literacy which will enable them to deal with life's red tape — from filling out forms, knowing one's rights to drawing up wills and reading the dosage on medicine bottles.

"These classes will also help you to understand life's everyday risks and will encourage you to motivate others to seek a good education," said Beatrice Mbhele, Training Manager from Operation Upgrade, at the launch last Tuesday.

Thanks to all those who are involved,

Peter R Brauteseth
Port Shepstone Rotary Club