Over the next three years, 35 of the most needy and deserving students a year from Alexander Sinton High School in Athlone will benefit from a donation to their school fees.
Chinese Consul General Kang Yong and Cape Grand China Charity Foundation director Jimmy Hu presented the donation. They will donate R105 000 to R1 000 each for 35 pupils a year, over three years, benefiting 105 pupils. They also donated 100 food parcels.
Inspiration came from a 2016 article of the school’s legacy project in the Cape Times, with a picture of then president Nelson Mandela’s visit after his release.
Speaking on behalf of the foundation, Rebecca Ni said: “Knowledge is power and I myself come from a poor background and chose to work in a factory that allowed me to work by day and study by night.
"It was an unforgettable time and I want you to know that no matter your situation, if you keep faith, stay positive and work hard, you can achieve your goals.”
Kang said the efforts of the Chinese people lifted them out of poverty and he sees the same potential within South Africa.
The school has a rich political, academic and sporting history and was the hub of anti-apartheid student uprisings.
Acting principal Michael Petersen said: “Through this donation our school would be able to assist 35 of our most deserving pupils a year over the next three years (which adds up to 105).
“There are criteria we use in selecting a pupil, but there is always the desire to help more.”