In a display of corporate social responsibility and a shared commitment to the future of the kingdom’s youth, financial powerhouses Liberty and STANLIB have joined forces to ensure that the back-to-school season is a time of hope rather than hardship.
The two organisations yesterday handed over a donation of E20 000, with each entity contributing E10 000 to the SOS Children’s Village.
Beyond the monetary donation, the companies went a step further by providing physical resources, including 15 custom-made school bags, as well as full winter sets and stationery kits for 20 pupils.
The contribution comes at a time when many households are feeling the pinch of rising educational costs, turning what could have been a stressful period into a celebration of academic potential.
For Liberty Life Swaziland, the donation forms part of a broader philosophy of sustainable community development, according to Managing Director Mangaliso Shabangu.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony at Liberty, Shabangu highlighted the importance of corporate entities playing an active role in nation-building.
“We are profoundly thankful that we can today demonstrate the abilities we have as a company, especially through our continued support for the SOS Children’s Village,” he said.
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“It is deeply pleasing to witness how our efforts as STANLIB, alongside the SOS team, directly impact the lives of children. As we build the nation ourselves, we are pleased to make specific donations that remove barriers for school-going children, particularly during this back-to-school campaign.”
The managing director emphasised that providing items such as custom school bags and stationery would ensure that the next generation of professionals was not only enrolled in school, but also equipped with the dignity and tools required to succeed.
Echoing these sentiments, STANLIB senior manager Muziwanele Manyathi described the donation as a strategic investment in the country’s human capital.
He said STANLIB’s involvement was rooted in the belief that an empowered and educated youth formed the strongest foundation for a prosperous society.
“This contribution will help us achieve our broader objectives as a country. It is vital that our youth is empowered and educated. Our wish is that they live long and healthy lives to become the best generation to deliver on the intended goals of our nation,” he said.
Manyathi also noted the emotional significance of the initiative, explaining that the timing of the donation — including winter sets — was deliberately aligned with the reopening of schools.
“Looking at the time we are at, as schools open, we felt it was very important to show that we have these children in our minds and hearts. We value our ongoing relationship with SOS Children’s Village and are honoured to contribute to their mission,” he added.
