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Renovations Begin at Dr JL Dube High School

1st April, 2022

Big things are happening at our second Cotton On Foundation supported school in South Africa, with renovations officially underway at Dr JL Dube High School in KwaMashu, Durban.

Students, teachers, community members and some very special friends of the Cotton On Foundation (including our incredible Global Ambassador Nomzamo Mbatha!) gathered last week to celebrate the turning of soil at the school, marking the first major refurbishment of the school since it was built in 1979. Check out all the action above!

Supporting over 1,200 students from Grades 8 to 12, the renovations are more than just an exciting upgrade for the local community – it means students will be able to continue on their education journey with the best resources available to them, without having to leave their neighbourhood.

42 new world-class classrooms are in the works, which will include new computers and internet access. For student support, counselling rooms and a Pathways Hub will be available, with wellbeing and leadership programs offered. There’s also a new multi-purpose field and indoor sports hall, and a performing arts hall. These new facilities will help keep students engaged and active in school while exploring all of their interests and getting creative in a supportive space.

The health and wellbeing of students is at the forefront of the new infrastructure, with a brand new kitchen included in the upgrade, along with new toilets and washrooms. Currently, cooking and food prep is done outside using a gas stove and makeshift tables, and female students only have access to two working toilets. With regular healthy meals, bathrooms for all students and the support and resources teachers need to keep students engaged, we’re working to continue breaking down the barriers that might otherwise keep students from attending school.

Dr JL Dube High School is the closest high school for students down the road at Cotton On Foundation supported Ethekwini Primary School. By upgrading infrastructure and resources, we’re helping to ensure that students are set up to continue their journey through school, and are more likely to graduate onto vocational and tertiary opportunities. With educational pathways that are more accessible than ever, students are empowered to seek more opportunities beyond school and within the workforce.