A new chapter has begun at Phambili Primary in Mdantsane as pupils, parents, alumni, and community members gathered to celebrate the launch of the school’s new navy and white uniform on Friday.
The change marks the first major uniform redesign since 1968, when the school’s traditional black and white uniform was introduced.
Teacher Nosipho Saul told the Go! the uniform change formed part of a broader facelift and transformation taking place at the school.
“We are doing a facelift as a school, so it was appropriate to change the uniform as well,” said Saul.
She said the old uniform had served generations of pupils for nearly six decades, but that the time had come to embrace a new look that reflected the changing times.
“Change needed to happen.
“Firstly, it represents positive change and it represents the new generation of learners that we have now because of how time has changed from 1968.
“The community can expect great changes that will impact the lives of their children on a new bright note,” she said.
Saul said the decision had received strong support from both parents and pupils.
“They shared the same sentiments as the school as to why changes needed to take place,” she said.
Recognising the school’s rich history as one of the oldest educational institutions in Mdantsane, the school invited former pupils to be part of the celebration.
“This school has a very deep history with the community as it is one of the oldest schools in Mdantsane,” Saul said.
“So it was important to share this new change with the people who helped shape the school into what it is today and celebrate with them this new idea that will affect the community positively.”
The launch programme featured a variety of cultural activities in celebration of Africa Month, including dance performances, poetry recitals and musical items by the school choir.
The highlight of the event was the symbolic exchange of the old uniform for the new one, carried out by the school’s teachers.
Saul said the initiative aligned with the school’s vision of pupil-centred education and promoting the wellbeing and dignity of all stakeholders.
“The vision of the school is that we believe in learner-centred education and promote the wealth and dignity of the spheres of the school, so this new change will impact this vision positively,” she said.
She said the school prided itself on cleanliness, neatness, positive representation through its uniform and maintaining a positive attitude.
“With the new uniform, the school hopes that the initiative will enforce these standards and traditions.”
Pupils played an active role in the transition process and have embraced the new look with enthusiasm.
“They will feel proud and honoured to be the pioneers of this new change, and it will motivate them to become hardworking learners,” said Saul.
She believes the new uniform symbolises more than a change in appearance.
“Change is very crucial to impact the school in a new light, and this is part of the school’s development.”
