A year after launching a breakfast programme that reaches more than 4,500 young learners in Kuruman and surrounding communities, partners and funders returned to local schools to assess progress and strengthen their collaboration. The initiative, supported by Kathu Solar Power and the Tiger Brands Foundation in partnership with the Department of Basic Education, is designed to complement the National School Nutrition Programme and ensure that vulnerable learners start their day with a nutritious meal.
School visits included Bankhara-Bodulong Primary, Gaegake Primary, Mahikaneng Primary, Maruping Primary and Seupe Primary. Principals at these schools say the impact has been significant, with improvements in attendance, punctuality, focus and overall learner wellbeing. Many noted that for children facing socio-economic challenges, the breakfast served each morning has become an essential lifeline.
Principal B.G. Magome of Bankhara-Bodulong Primary said the programme has played a crucial role in keeping learners in school. He explained that without the support, the school might have seen an increase in dropout rates. He added that the daily meal not only ensures learners begin the day with energy but also motivates them to arrive at school early and attend regularly, helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds cope better with their morning learning activities.
Through its partnership with the Tiger Brands Foundation, Kathu Solar Park supplies beneficiary schools with fortified sorghum, maize and oat porridges formulated by nutritionists to meet World Health Organisation micronutrient standards. Trained food handlers prepare the meals in kitchens that have been newly built or upgraded to ensure safety and hygiene. Each learner receives their own plate and utensils, reinforcing dignity and allowing them to eat comfortably in a supportive school environment.
The programme aims to address both immediate hunger and long-term health concerns in communities where children often arrive at school without having eaten. By improving concentration and classroom participation, the initiative strengthens learning outcomes and contributes to more stable and confident school environments.
Kathu Solar Park and the Tiger Brands Foundation say they remain committed to investing in learner wellbeing and supporting education in the Northern Cape. Their continued collaboration seeks to ensure that every child begins the school day with the nutrition needed to learn, grow and succeed.
