Sanlam Allianz donates prescription glasses and stationery to learners

By: Abigail Basson

A total of 250 learners in Otjozondjupa Region received prescription glasses from Sanlam Allianz Sanlam Allianz, through its Vision for Change project. The glasses worth N$380 000 were donated to 15 schools in the region.

The company also donated 150 boxes of stationery including mathematical sets, writing books, and other learning materials to 17 schools countrywide.

The handover ceremony took place on Wednesday in Windhoek.

Education deputy minister, Dino Ballotti says that having the correct learning materials can build confidence in the classroom and allow learners to fully participate in their studies.  He says, ”I know that for many learners, having the right learning materials is essential. Something as simple as having the correct tools for mathematics or science can build the confidence in the classroom and allow a learner to fully and meaningfully participate in their studies.” 

He commended Sanlam Allianz for its generous contribution aimed at supporting learners. Saying that “It is my greatest pleasure, on behalf of our ministry, as well as my minister, to warmly and sincerely thank Sanlam Allianz for their generous contribution, which supports our learners. “

Sanlam Allianz CEO Tertius Stears said the company partnered with Shaetonhodi Optometrist to provide eye-testing services at 15 schools, helping empower learners through better access to eye care and education.

He says, h“e optometry services are often located far from these communities with some families needing to travel hundreds of kilometres to receive assistance. To address this challenge together with  Shaetonhodi Optometrist established temporary dark room testing facilities at 15 schools to ensure that these Namibian children receive the medical attention they so dearly need. As committed corporate citizens Sanlam Allianz continues to support the Namibian development plans and vision 2030 particularly in areas of health education and youth development and empowerment.”

The project, launched in 2017, aims to help learners with sight problems to see clearly and improve their learning. So far, it has helped more than 2 900 pupils across the country, with Sanlam committing over N$2 million this year to support educational programmes.