07 Dec 2016

Standard Chartered Bank, Nzano Branch, in Francistown recently donated goods worth P13 000 to Tshimologo Stimulation Centre as part of the Adopt-A-School-Initiative.

The donated goods included electrical appliances, gift bags, books, toys and a water tank.

The school head, Mr Onkutlule Ramolelekwane, extended his gratitude to the bank employees for lending a helping hand at the time when the centre was in need.

He noted that the centre has been operational in Francistown since 1984 offering rehabilitation services to children living with disabilities therefore the donations will contribute a lot to their daily needs.

Mr Ramolelekwane said some of the donations such as the books and toys will help refresh the mind of the learners and educate them as some will be progressing to primary school.

Furthermore, he noted that they were still faced with challenges of shortage of accommodation which has forced some children to live with their parents.

For her part, Standard Chartered regional Manager Ms Julia Tlhotlhologolo said that the bank is committed to the communities they serve.

She said the donation symbolised the bank’s sustainability in the promotion of community development.

“It gives us great joy that after many years of existence we are still standing strong to serve Batswana.

Deciding to assist this organisation was an easy decision as we looked at the needs of the centre and realised that they were in line with our vision”, she added.

According to Ms Tlhotlhologolo the ceremony is also an opportunity for the bank staff to participate in serving the community.

Satellite South ward councillor, Mr Godisang Radisigo encouraged business people in the area to give back to the communities which they operate in through initiatives such as adopt a school as this will go a long way in improving the quality of education in the area.

Mr Radisigo raised his concern over shortage of hostel facilities at the centre saying it needs immediate attention to accommodate even those who are forced to stay with parents.

“I have heard the plight of the centre regarding shortage of accommodation and I will take it upon myself to bring the issue before the relevant authorities and see if we cannot find some place to accommodate kids coming from nearby villages” he said.

Mr Radisigo applauded the centre for doing well in the Special Olympics games which were held in Serowe as they brought home some medals in the 50 metre race. ENDS