The poverty stricken Bothokuhle Crèche, located in Slangspruit, became the proud owner of the first
“Edutainer” in Pietermaritzburg (with only 101 in South Africa). Working with the “Greater Good Foundation”,
this deed was made possible by Aberdare Cables Pietermaritzburg, in partnership with Desta Power
Matla.
Coordinating the project was Erica da Silva (Human Capital Business Partner, PMB), “The Edutainer is a
remarkable concept. It is a cheaper and more convenient alternative to erecting buildings and creates the
right conditions for an effective educational programme.”
“The Edutainer serves as a fully equipped classroom with electrical connections, burglar bars on all
windows, a security gate, a large cupboard, steel shelves, a full length chalk board, soft pin board, insulated
ceiling, vinyl flooring, furniture, books and toys”, smiled Erica.
Assuming a lifespan of 25 years, the Edutainer will benefit a total of 750 of South Africa’s future leaders.
To enhance the project, a Grade R teacher was taken through a fully accredited training programme to
achieve a level 4 qualification in Early Childhood Development and is now ready and prepared to tutor
children in the Edutainer. The training was administered by Little Elephant Training Centre for Early
Education (LETCEE).
Laurence Braithwaite, General Manager (Pietermaritzburg) was present at the handover. “Aberdare
Cables Pietermaritzburg and Desta Power Matla have made it possible for 30 children, previously housed
in a mud structure, to receive quality education from a qualified pre-school teacher, in an environment that
is conducive to learning and fun”, commented Laurence.
