The State of Learning in South Africa
South Africa’s education system continues to face deep inequalities. Of the learners who enter Grade 1, only about 55% make it to matric, and hunger is one of the biggest drivers of dropouts. Learners who arrive at school hungry struggle to concentrate, perform poorly in exams, and are more likely to leave school early.
Matric is already one of the most demanding exams a young person will face. Yet for thousands of learners, the stress of hunger and the lack of basic resources like stationery add an unfair burden. Turning 18 often means losing access to social grants, but it doesn’t mean the need for food disappears. Hunger doesn’t stop, and neither should their right to learn with dignity.
That’s why, in Mandela Month 2025, SA Harvest made a deliberate choice: to back the Class of 2025.
The Impact of Buckets of Nutrition
Through the Buckets of Nutrition for Matrics campaign, SA Harvest packed and distributed 1,375 buckets filled with food, toiletries, stationery, and hope. Each bucket was more than supplies – it was a lifeline, a reminder that learners have a right to be fed while they pursue their dreams.
The impact was felt across communities: learners could focus on their studies instead of their stomachs, parents felt supported, and futures were influenced. As seen in Missionvale and other communities, these buckets gave learners the strength to show up, stay present, and succeed.
Be Part of the Solution
Phumelele’s story shows what happens when we back education. Now, she needs us to stand with her once more. By supporting learners like Phumelele with bursaries, food, and resources, we can ensure that their hard‑won achievements translate into futures filled with opportunity.
If you or your organisation can assist with funding or support for Phumelele’s studies, please contact our CBO Liaison, Zanele Mokolutlo, at zanele@saharvest.org. Together, we can turn six distinctions into a degree, and a degree into a life transformed.
Our Why
Phumelele’s journey reminds us why we do this work. It shows the power of a bucket when it ends up in the hands of someone who truly needs it. And it proves that when we come together, we can change lives.
This is why we show up.