Gratomic Inc has kicked off its 1 million Namibian dollar (around C$86,000) improvement program at the J.S. Herero Primary School by handing over of 100 school uniforms, 300 gift bags and 300 lunch packs totaling Namibian dollars (NAD) $47,500 (C$4,000).
As reported in February this year, the company chose the school as the beneficiary of its Corporate Social Responsibility Program in Namibia for 2022 and the start of the commitment saw a sponsored event attended by Gratomic senior staff, Armando Farhate, Karl Trudeau and Lynne Brand.
The cash will go towards repairing, upgrading and renovating several key areas of the school, including constructing an additional kitchen, upgrading the roof, sewer system and restrooms. Gratomic will also provide a printer and stationary supplies required to improve the children's education and has now fulfilled its promise to supply new uniforms.
"The company believes that economic growth and thriving communities are possible through investment in education. Support programs, such as Gratomic's Youth and Education initiative, provide children with opportunities that they would not otherwise have," the company said in a statement.
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"Gratomic has initiated a book drive in order to establish a more suitable library for the students at the J.S. Herero Primary School.
"The school's current library is not well-equipped and the lack of suitable reading materials will negatively impact the ability of the students to elevate their literacy levels. The company began the book drive locally and welcomes donations from any party willing to participate," it added.
JS Herero is located within the Karas region in Namibia, around 12 kilometres from the C14 road to Bethanie. The school first opened in 1984 and has 225 students, nine teachers and a handful of support staff.
Gratomic is focused on becoming a leading global graphite supplier and aims to secure a strong position in the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain. It has projects in Namibia, Brazil, and Canada.
Contact the writer at giles@proactiveinvestors.com