Building stronger communities through education: Atlas Copco funds renovation project at King Harvest Academy in KwaZulu-Natal
Aligning to its narrative that education is a cornerstone of community development, Atlas Copco, in collaboration with Tirisano Trust, recently completed a renovation project at King Harvest Academy that has served to enhance the learning environment for the over 150 learners and 15 educators at the private community-based school.
It’s no coincidence that the school, situated in the rural village of Hlutankungu in Jolivet, KwaZulu-Natal, is on the route of the KAP sani2c mountain bike stage race which has been supported by Atlas Copco over the past four years. In addition to its cycling teams, Atlas Copco donates lighting towers and generators to provide essential lighting and power for cyclists at the overnight camping sites. Now in its 20th year, this epic three-day, 270km cycle race is globally renowned not only for its grueling stages and scenic beauty, but also for its tremendous contribution to the development of communities along the route. “Local organizations provide essential event services, benefiting some thirteen communities, twenty-three schools, and various charities yearly,” says Tamika Gandar from sani2c. “Our Community Development Trust focuses on education, funding school improvements and providing study materials, fostering significant local development.”
“Community development is precisely what resonates with us,” stresses Noluthando Zondo, Communications Professional at Atlas Copco Holding Sub Saharan Africa. “Firmly believing that when schools thrive, communities thrive, we wanted to play our part in fostering education. We are a leading organisation in South Africa’s mining and industrial sectors that is committed to giving back to nearby communities where we as well as our customers operate. King Harvest Academy plays a pivotal role in the vibrant community of Hlutankungu and when we became aware of the serious challenges faced by the school, we did not hesitate to come to their assistance.”
After consultations with and assessments by various stakeholders, the renovation project at King Harvest Academy got underway. KAP sani2c has, along its route, helped to upskill and employ artisans including builders, tilers, carpenters and plumbers over the years, who assist with projects in their communities. With the aid of funding from Atlas Copco, these local contractors were appointed to upgrade several facilities at the school: Over the period of one month, roofs and ceilings were repaired, classrooms were renovated, and walls were freshly painted. In addition to the tiling of various walkways, the school foyer and entrance area also received a makeover, ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone.
Francis Thomas, Marketing Manager and teacher at King Harvest Academy expressed their gratitude to Atlas Copco. “These much-needed renovations have helped to revitalise our school and have provided an enriched, more conducive and safer environment for all our learners.”
“Our involvement with King Harvest Academy, which is doing outstanding work to educate and grow the bright young minds of the future, and our collaboration with Tirisano Trust and KAP sani2c, demonstrates our belief in the power of working together to foster growth within our community,” emphasises Noluthando. “By continuing to invest in education and community development, we aim to build a stronger South Africa.” Tirisano Trust is a social development funding organisation founded by Atlas Copco that focuses on the investment, sponsorship of enterprise and social projects in rural areas.
