STANBIC BANK MAKES A DIFFERENCE THROUGH STAFF VOLUNTEERISM IN FRANCISTOWN

FRANCISTOWN – Stanbic Bank Botswana, through its CSI initiatives and staff volunteerism efforts, continues to make a difference in the various communities it operates in.  To build on this, and in line with the Bank’s Purpose – “Botswana is our home, and we drive her growth.”  Francistown Branch staff recently donated equipment valued at P31,646.58 to the Francistown School of Deaf Centre (FCDE) and Aerodrome Primary School.

In September 2022, the staff donated two Jojo tanks,  2 televisions and other items to the School of Deaf Centre. This special school operates under the Botswana Society for the Deaf with financial support from the Ministry of Basic Education.

Stanbic Bank Botswana Francistown Branch Manager, Pearl Mojiwa said, “For years we have been working towards helping communities and making a difference in the field of education through our CSI and staff involvement. Therefore, these donations are small gestures but we know we have to make an impact and demonstrate that we care about those around us. We believe in our vision to improve the lives of Batswana and the nation as a whole.  Education is very important and we recognise however that some amongst us need support in moving forward.”

Francistown School of Deaf Centre Head Master, Baliti Tlhalerwa said, “We thank Stanbic Bank for standing true to their word to support our school once more and these Jojo tanks will make a difference in the lives of the students. Water is a basic need and all students in the school need that. This will help us ensure they have strong, safe and enjoyable experiences as we work to shape their hearts and minds. Let us all continue to invest in our children for they are indeed our tomorrow.”

FCDE provides pre-primary, primary and vocational skills to deaf learners from the age of two (2) years to Twenty (20) years. The School enrols deaf learners from the Northern part of Botswana, with a current enrolment of seventy-nine (79) learners, as well as boarding facilities for students who come from outside Francistown city limits.

In another effort to showcase that the Bank cares about making an impact in education, the team on the 13^th of September donated a Computer desk, central processing unit and a printer to Aerodrome Primary School. This is a Government-aided school which also caters for disabled, underprivileged children. Tracking PSLE results from 2017, Aerodrome Primary School has been doing well and recognising excellence. The hope is to see the small gesture contribute to enhanced performance further.

Aerodrome Primary School Headteacher, Fredah Wangu Majaha said, “We are indeed thankful and we value the relationship we have built thus far with Stanbic Bank Botswana. These donations will make a difference in the lives of our students and the donation will help the school with production of learning materials for the students.” Continued Mojiwa, “This donation comes with a view towards supporting education and making sure we assist by equipping the students with necessities to study. An extra computer will help increase  productivity in the school to benefit both the students and teachers at Aerodrome Primary Secondary.”

Stanbic Bank continues to champion a culture of giving back to the community which is an integral part of Botswana’s roots and testament. The Bank firmly believes that, no matter how big or small, every act of kindness and generosity can make a difference in building a brighter tomorrow. It Can Be.