The Fundi Foundation has launched a national campaign helping families settle school uniform lay-bys, reducing financial stress and restoring dignity for learners across South Africa.
The Fundi Foundation’s inaugural “Bring a Little Joy” campaign represents a targeted social impact intervention designed to ease the financial burden of school uniforms for families across South Africa. With an initial commitment of R30 000, the Foundation is helping parents and caregivers settle outstanding school uniform lay-bys at participating retailers including PEP, Jet and Ackermans.
The campaign directly addresses one of the most pressing back-to-school challenges facing households. Rising costs, combined with broader economic pressures, have made school readiness increasingly difficult for many families, with uniforms representing one of the largest single expenses at the start of each academic year.
“A staggering 95% of South African parents experience stress when preparing for the new school year, with 80% reporting that back-to-school costs set them back financially,” explains Sphiwe Masuku, Fundi Foundation spokesperson.
School uniforms and related costs continue to place significant strain on household budgets. The minimum cost for a single Grade 8 learner now exceeds R5 000, with uniform essentials alone accounting for nearly R2 700. These costs have risen at a rate significantly above national inflation, further intensifying financial pressure on families already managing multiple competing expenses.
“A school uniform is not simply about looking smart: it speaks about the courage, pride and possibility that education brings,” she notes. “For many parents however, covering uniform costs alone requires more than a full month of work – meaning the impact will be felt in the family well into the year. Through the ‘Bring a Little Joy’ campaign, we are hoping to assist in easing this burden.
“We cannot do it alone however, and are calling on all South Africans to join us in ensuring that no child continues the school year without the uniform they need to succeed.”
The campaign forms part of a broader effort to strengthen educational access by addressing real-world financial barriers that prevent learners from participating fully in school life. By contributing directly to lay-by accounts, the Fundi Foundation ensures that support reaches families in a practical and immediate way.
Lay-by systems, while providing flexibility, can still present challenges when families face unexpected financial setbacks. By settling up to R1 000 per qualifying lay-by, the Foundation is helping ensure that learners receive the uniforms they need without prolonged financial hardship.
“A little joy goes a long way,” adds Masuku. “Your kindness can lift a burden, lighten a financial load and brighten a child’s entire year. Every donation, no matter how small, brings us closer to ensuring that more learners can walk through the school gates with their heads held high each day. Uniforms are the foundation upon which a child’s educational journey is built. They are a step towards success!”
The initiative also creates opportunities for broader participation from corporates, organisations and individuals, who are invited to contribute and expand the campaign’s reach. The Foundation aims to double or triple its initial contribution, extending support to even more families nationwide.
By reducing barriers to school readiness, the campaign strengthens social inclusion, supports educational continuity, and reinforces the critical role that dignity, confidence and access play in shaping long-term opportunity for young people.
“With the school year already in full swing and the relief of January salaries for many, please share a thought for others and give what you can,” encourages Masuku. “It will make a real difference when a child needs it most.”
