GRAAFF-REINET NEWS — With great excitement, Vuyani Safe Haven opened a Learning Centre in April for their children who are not making progress in mainstream schools.
Vuyani's vision is to make a lasting difference in children's lives through equipping them to reach their individual developmental potential, and many of the children have been unable to reach that potential due to their circumstances.
Financial support for this has come from the Rupert Education Trust, and the Botanical Sports Club has made a building available for the project. Ebben Hufkie is acting as a mentor.
Early every morning the learners start with exercises, then to the carpet for maths and sounds. Slowly but surely they are making progress, and they can already write their own names, count and start to recognise sounds. There is a reward for those who cooperate!
In the afternoons the teachers manage the homework programme of all the Vuyani children. They also give extra attention to reading and maths. The organisers are very grateful to the Department of Education for their support.
As always with any charitable organisation, there is a long list of needs for the Vuyani centre, including cash donations to buy the correct curriculum and reading books. Desks and chairs for the smaller children (5 years to 10 years) are needed, as many of them struggle to work in an adult-size chair.
As far as equipment is concerned, they would also benefit hugely from a blackboard, photocopier, big abacus, and a CD player, as well as a small fridge, kettle, wood floor polisher and six-panel heaters.
Stationery supplies and large sheets of coloured card are always in demand for the children's assignments.
Anyone who can assist, or would like to find out more, can contact Riana van der Ahee at 079 425 6077.
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