"Lack of school desks is a problem faced by many South African schools. Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, estimates that schools across South Africa need approximately three million desks. This is not a statistic that we can ignore. It is our duty as corporate citizens to ensure that children's educational struggles are addressed," explains Madelain Roscher, DeskBags originator and managing director of PR Worx.
"It's disheartening to see that some of our future leaders have no choice but to crouch over on their hands and knees to use the floor as a writing surface for an entire school day. This is not only extremely uncomfortable but it hinders their ability to learn, leads to bad handwriting, poor eyesight, unconventional posture, and chronic back and neck ache."
It was for this very reason that DeskBags were created, with the aim of easing the educational burden felt by so many children.
Aside from being made from 100% recyclable billboard materials, DeskBags are school bags which provide a portable desk solution for learners to use at school and at home. The front flap of the bag is reinforced with durable ABS plastic, that when folded open, allows for instant desk support. The light weight school bag also allows plenty of space for learners to carry all their books and stationery whether they are in pre-primary school or matric.
Although Baikagetse Intermediary School in the East Rand has some desks for their learners, majority of their students come from the surrounding informal settlements and do not have access to desks or tables at home to do their school work on.
In order to make an impact of the 3 million children in need of desks, DeskBags are reliant on the support of corporate sponsors to cover the production costs of the bags. Through the support of corporate companies, such as Anglo American, DeskBags are donated to needy schools free of charge.
"As a company that places immense importance on education, we constantly partner with initiatives that help strengthen education in communities throughout South Africa. We understand that by doing so we are leaving a positive legacy and making a real difference in the lives of so many children. We are proud to support the DeskBags initiative and help secure a bright educational future for the children of Baikagetse Intermediary School," says Dr. Pranill Ramchander, head of Anglo American's Corporate Communications division.
Also on hand to assist with the handover were friends of DeskBags and well-known South African comedians, Chris Forest and Dusty Rich.
"It is always such a joy for us to be able to make a difference in the lives of the underprivileged school children across South Africa. The smiles on their faces make us realise just how worthwhile it is to give back to schools that need it most. We would love to be able to assist many more schools but need the assistance of corporate South Africa in order to do so. With sponsorship costs of as little as R100 per DeskBag, there is no excuse not to get involved," concludes Roscher.
For more information on how you can get involved with DeskBags, go to www.deskbags.co.za or call +27(0)11 896 1818.
