Rand Refinery, one of the world's leading gold and silver refiners and an operator of one of the continent’s largest low-grade gold recovery smelters, is investing further in the community surrounding its operations.   Understanding the importance of adequate water and sanitation facilities in schools, Rand Refinery has embarked on a programme to improve water and sanitation infrastructure within schools. 

As part of its commitment and support for education, it is handing over new and upgraded facilities to no less than 4 schools in the community today. The donation is aligned with its efforts to promote hygienic and safe environments for students, allowing them to focus on their studies without concerns about basic amenities. These efforts align with its vision of creating a positive impact and nurturing the next generation of scholars. 

In a mix of repairs, renovations, improvements to water drainage and electrical systems, and building new toilet facilities, the schools are being geared to give their students top-class facilities so they can reach their full potential. 

During the handover of new facilities, which included the purchase and delivery of two new prefab ablution blocks at Laerskool Goudrand in Boksburg, Rand Refinery CEO Praveen Baijnath said it is imperative that corporates do more to support SA’s children so they can have access to better facilities.

“By providing modern and functional toilets, we aim to alleviate the challenges faced by schools in maintaining and upgrading their facilities. The donation is part of our ongoing efforts to contribute to social development and the well-being of our community,” Baijnath says. 

The Gauteng Department of Education and Rand Refinery’s socio-economic development partnership has assisted 6 schools in the Ekurhuleni area, all in close proximity to Rand Refinery’s operations. The initiatives are focused on water and sanitation, and the project costs are estimated at R5.6 million. 

A handover last year in terms of this programme saw new facilities launched at Laerskool Germiston Primary and Galway Primary School.

At the second handover today at Ekurhuleni Primary School in Germiston South, Rand Refinery cut the ceremonial ribbon on a new ablution block. The initiative included renovations to the existing ablution block and stormwater drainage system upgrades. Germiston South Primary School accepted the newly renovated Grade R classroom toilets during the afternoon. The support to the school also included upgrades to the sewer line and repair to the stormwater drainage, so blockages were removed.

The new toilets will positively impact the lives of students, teachers, and staff, promoting health, hygiene, and dignity within the school premises.

“Investing in education goes beyond classroom learning and extends to providing the necessary facilities for students to thrive. Through this program, in partnership with the Government, we aim to enhance the educational experience for students in the communities we serve. All our programmes, based on a strict needs analysis, ensure SA makes inroads into improving socio-economic outcomes,” concludes Baijnath.