Squeals of excitement from the learners of Strand Moslem Primary could be heard from the school gates as guests made their way to the opening ceremony of the school’s new classrooms on Tuesday, 24 June 2014. The school grounds was buzzing with activity as learners, teachers and invited guests alike eagerly awaited the start of the ceremony.

Guests were welcomed by the architect of the building and Master of Ceremonies, Graham Finlayson, a Rotary Club of Newlands member. An opening prayer by Imam Rhoda reiterated how fortunate we all are. As the school choir sang their beautiful school song, the morning sun warmed the attendees from head to toe.

The building project was made possible by the generous donation from Peninsula Beverage Company (PenBev – local bottler and distributor of The Coca-Cola Company products in the Western and Northern Cape) as well as the support from The Rotary Club of Newlands. Managing Director of the Forbes Group, Stuart McLeod inspired the crowd by reiterating the importance of education in growing a nation of future leaders. The Rotary Club of Newlands President, Menno de Wet, spoke about the inspirational work the organisation is involved in both locally and internationally of which the Strand Moslem Primary classrooms is just one such project. He also mentioned the organisations ethos in building closer relationships within communities and the importance of their relationship with PenBev.

The celebrations continued with beautiful poems spoken by the Grade 3’s and two Grade 7’s. School Principal Mr Fanie was overwhelmed with thanks for all those who attended the event and the sponsors of the new classrooms.

Fanie says, “We have been blessed with the support from our local community and sponsors who made this dream a reality. Their kindness and generosity will positively impact the lives of the learners for years to come.”

The four new classrooms now allow additional accommodation for 120 learners, and the Grade 4’s will take their place in the new double story building at the start of the third term.

PenBev’s Corporate Communications Manager, Denise Green, says, “It was a perfect day for the celebrations at the school and we thank Mr Fanie and his team for inviting and welcoming us to their school. We are so fortunate and proud to be able to contribute to the education of our youth by donating these classroom facilities.” This initiative is PenBev’s 27th major brick and mortar project over the past 27 years and forms part of their social initiatives which assist in uplifting the communities in which they operate in.

For more information about PenBev contact 021-936-5500 or visit www.penbev.co.za. Join PenBev’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PenBev or visit www.newlands.org for projects that the Rotary Club of Newlands are involved with.

###

Released by Reputation Matters Media contact: Lisa Sharland Mobile: 076 373 4602 lisa@reputationmatters.co.za