Helping SA’S vulnerable
Nation-building through a series of empowerment projects and funding
Nelson Mandela is famously quoted as saying “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world” and Chinese enterprises operating in SA have taken his words to heart, believing in the power of education to assist in solving the country’s social issues.
Together, these businesses have actively formulated a “Study-assistant Programme”, which has invested in local education, benefiting a large number of students.
The Johannesburg branch of the China Construction Bank (CCB) participated in the SA “Path Towards New Life” education programme and donated R1m to allow 10 undergraduate students to complete their diplomas or further higher education.
CCB also raised financing for the refurbishment of the Red Cross Children’s Hospital’s medical equipment and facilities, ensuring the children can receive the best treatment and comfortable conditions. A special event was held, where personalised teddy bears were donated to the children at the Cape Town hospital.
In 2017, Bank of China Johannesburg donated furniture and learning tools to the Vuleka Church School to help poverty-stricken learners. Also in 2017, Baic Automobile SA donated sports equipment to Coega Primary School in Nelson Mandela Bay, including rugby and soccer balls, frameless basketball nets and baseball facilities. The FAW Group SA donated R200,000 to six schools in the Nelson Mandela Bay. When they learnt that many of the students walk 20 km barefoot to school every day, they immediately purchased 300 sets of new school uniforms and 400 pairs of new school shoes. The bank also participated in a fundraising event at Kang Ning Chinese Aged Home, established 37 years ago. The annual fundraising event has received strong support from the Chinese Embassy in SA and Chinese enterprises.
Sinosteel has sponsored teachers at Maelebe Primary School and Kgahlanong High School, as well as helping the children in the Tukakgomo area. PMG Mining donates money, uniforms, school bags,