06 Sep 2015

First National Bank Botswana (FNBB) Foundation has donated 266 pairs of shoes to Ipeleng primary school students in Lobatse on Friday (September 4).

Speaking at the hand- over ceremony at the school campus, Lobatse FNB branch manager, Mr Samuel Mmelesi said as a bank, they understand that not everyone could afford to buy a pair of shoes, yet a pair of shoes contributes to children going to school.

Mr Mmelesi added that the responsibility of taking care of a child was not only limited to biological parents, but rather involves the whole community in which they live. He said FNB Foundation is the bank’s corporate social responsibility trust fund, established for the sole purpose of aiding beneficiaries who were in need and deserving assistance, such as orphans and vulnerable children.

He added that the bank contributes up to one percent of its after tax profits to the foundation annually, hence making it one of the biggest corporate donors and a leader in corporate social responsibility.

He said so far the foundation has invested more than P30 million in various projects.

Earlier in her welcome remarks, Ipeleng primary school head, Ms Naledi Maokaneng said her school was the smallest in town with only 373 pupils including 21 pre-scholars. Ms Maokaneng added that she believes the donation would help improve the performance of the students, hence put the school in a better position.

For her part, BMC/Maokaneng ward councillor, Ms Tiny Dinoko said she was thankful to FNB for planting a seed by donating to the school.

She said it was a good thing since the students were the leaders of tomorrow and would never forget that gift. Councillor Dinoko said the shoes would have a positive impact on the children’s studies as they would motivate them to work hard in school. Ends