Nonprofit Organization Management - Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
Tjhabelang Primary School was established as an independent, private school by ClinVet Community Development and Education Trust (CCDET) in 2007 to provide a pathway out of poverty for the children living in the rural surroundings of the School. The children of Bainsvlei, Bloemfontein, from where Tjhabelang draws its learners, live mostly in poor households headed by parents whose own lack of education and skills limit them, at best, to a lifetime of unskilled labour, or at worst, the demoralising effects of unemployment.At present Tjhabelang offers schooling to children in the first three years of formal education (Grades 1 to 3) and prepares children to enter formal schooling for three years prior (from the age of three years). At Tjhabelang learners enjoy an above average educational experience, receive guidance in extracurricular matters, are transported to and from school, and are provided with healthy meals every school day. School fees are highly subsidised.Most schools in the vicinity suffer from inadequate facilities, crippling budget constraints, low standards as set by government, overcrowded classrooms (more than 40 learners per class) and inadequately trained and poorly motivated teachers. Tjhabelang offers fully equipped and state-of-the art equipment deployed in modern buildings, committed teaching staff who go the extra mile to meet learners' individual needs and small class sizes (maximum 25 learners per class). Tuition is not limited to academic concerns, but extended to include general life skills and the inculcation of healthy values as exhibited by productive citizens.