By Tandzile Dlamini
MBABANE – Unite Against Depression donated sanitary pads to KaSchiele High School in a gesture aimed at supporting girls’ dignity and easing mental health pressures among learners.
The donation, sponsored by Miss Mbali Gwebu, aimed to reduce stress among female learners by meeting their physical and emotional needs. It was handed over by Gwebu and Nomvuyo Msimango from Unite Against Depression and received by the school’s leadership and Social Support Club executive committee.
According to Unite Against Depression, the initiative aligns with the organisation’s broader mission to tackle mental health challenges in schools by supporting learners where it matters most. “We believe in bringing solutions to mental health challenges and avoiding stressors at all costs,” said Fisokuhle Mndzebele. “Taking care of learners’ physical needs is one way of helping them gain confidence and focus on their studies.”
He added that the donation drive is ongoing and appealed to the public for support with other essential items. “We were short of toiletries such as soap, roll-ons, lotions and toothbrushes. We kindly ask for contributions as we prepare to return to the school on 2 July.”
Principal Mbatha commended the initiative, highlighting its timely relevance in a generation where learners are overwhelmed by stress, depression, and low self-esteem. “When this club was introduced, I loved it from the start. It is important in a school where learners are challenged so much by depression and a lack of confidence,” she said. “These dignity pads are a real need for every girl child in the school. When they don’t have them, they start to feel uncomfortable, skip classes, or hide in the bathroom. We appreciate the donors who have stepped up and said, ‘I want to help learners so that they are not stressed by such basic needs.’”
Career Guidance Teacher Mr Thiza Dlamini echoed the importance of learners supporting one another, not just waiting for external help. “Thank you so much Mbali for this wonderful gesture. It shows that you understand we live together as brothers and sisters,” he said. “The club must lead by example , if you see a child who needs a jersey and you have two, ask your parents if you can share. It becomes worse when help only comes from outside, yet there’s someone right next to you who could have assisted.”
Through its Social Support Club, KaSchiele High School has joined hands with Unite Against Depression to foster a culture of care and empathy. The club was formed to ease the mental pressures faced by learners and help them remain focused on their academic journey with relaxed and free minds.
As Mndzebele put it, “We’re not just talking about mental health we are implementing strategies that reduce the burden and create a support system inside the school.” The organisation continues to call for support from the public as it works to meet the holistic needs of school children across the country.
(Courtesy Pics)
