In this digital age, the simple use of a computer is a function which most people take for granted. However, for many disadvantaged schools in underprivileged communities the cost of purchasing a computer or a printer is an expense which they simply cannot afford.

Recognising this challenge, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions South Africa generously donated 24 printers to six schools in Tembisa and Soweto.

“We wanted to do something good and this is part of the company’s ‘giving back to the community’ initiative,” states Kgothatso Ntsie, Marketing & Communications Manager at thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions South Africa. “As the printers, initially bought by us, were no longer needed and are all in good working order, we decided to donate them to primary and secondary schools in Johannesburg townships.”

The initiative, which started over a year ago, saw thyssenkrupp conduct research in order to identify those disadvantaged schools that would benefit most from using the units; six primary and secondary schools, one in Tembisa and five in Soweto, were selected as recipients of four printers each.

Highly positive feedback was received from all the schools, including Prudens Secondary School in Soweto. Opening its doors 37 years ago, the school caters to 325 learners.

“Thanks to this generous donation, we are able to replace our old worn-out printers with the machines from thyssenkrupp,” notes Principal, AN Molokele. “On behalf of Prudens Secondary School, we extend our gratitude to thyssenkrupp for this donation. It certainly has gone some way in relieving our stress when it comes to day-to-day printing and photocopying and contributes to the functionality and smooth running of the school.”

Further appreciative feedback came from Tswelopele Secondary School in Tembisa which was established in 2011 and educates 1164 learners. “These printers will be used in our library and offices,” confirms Rebecca Dikgale of Tswelopele Secondary School.

“Thank you to thyssenkrupp for choosing us!”

“thyssenkrupp is passionate about community development and education and we are confident that these printers will assist in alleviating some of the difficulties experienced by these disadvantaged schools. We wish the schools every success for their 2019 academic year,” concludes Ntsie.