A refurbished infrastructure complete with digital learning spaces, sports facilities, additional staff and ongoing support all forms part of the foundation's plans to create a new future for this school that educates 1 280 learners.

Furthermore, the Cotton On Foundation's commitment to the school includes a feeding scheme, the introduction of sporting programmes, teacher training, supplementing operational costs and the provision of literacy materials for learners.

Work on the physical and digital learning infrastructure commences later this month, with plans grounded in social and environmental sustainability. The rebuild include
  • implementing recycling stations for paper, plastic, glass and cans,
  • upcycling of material, and
  • repurposing as much demolition material as possible.
This is while maintaining the character of Dr JL Dube High by keeping key architectural features. Renewable energy, indigenous gardens and a water retention system will aim to reduce carbon footprint. Local contractors and SMMEs form part of the development team.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including:
  • Weziwe Hadebe acting DDG of IDS office of the MEC for Education in Kwa Zulu-Natal
  • Ward 40 councillor Sithembiso Mzimela
  • Cotton On Foundation ambassador and local actress Nomzamo Mbatha, and
  • Cotton On Country manager Natalie Wills.
Mbatha delivered an impassioned speech in which she implored the learners to honour the opportunity that the school is providing to enable them to achieve their goals in life, and encouraged them to stay committed to their education and to aim for the stars.

"It is an honour to return to my hometown to attend this occasion, which marks the beginning of a new chapter for Dr JL Dube High School," says Mbatha.

"On behalf of the community of KwaMashu, I would like to thank the Cotton On Foundation for investing in this school, knowing that education is key to creating a bright and promising future for our youth," adds Mbatha. 

"The child is at the heart of everything we do at the Cotton On Foundation. In line with our Child’s Journey model, we are dedicated to creating secondary pathways, which is why we are so excited about our partnership with Dr JL Dube High School, our second school in the community of KwaMashu," says Tara Stretch, manager of the Cotton On Foundation.

"Dr JL Dube High School is only a short walk from Ethekwini Primary, the first school we built in this area, and a school of choice for these learners as they transition to high school," Stretch concludes.

For more information, visit www.cottonongroup.com. You can also follow Cotton On Foundation on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.