The Faculty of Education at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus will be launching its “Busy Bee Kindness Corner” community engagement project on 14 August.
Dr Elize Küng, deputy dean for community engagement and stakeholder relations in the faculty and champion of the project, says the aim is to encourage staff and students to donate any unused stationery or materials at the Busy Bee Kindness Corner which will be situated in Building A16, room 123.
“The idea is for individuals to take the stationery they require, and then leave something for others in need or to donate funds towards buying stationery,” she explains.
The idea for the project came about during a visit to the Kortrijk Campus of the VIVES University of Applied Sciences in Belgium. There they had a small corner where students could place unused objects for others to take. While cleaning out cupboards containing various materials left over from her children's school days, Dr Küng thought of the many tasks education students have to complete – requiring various project materials and stationery – and the seed was planted.
"The idea behind the Busy Bee Kindness Corner is to create a culture of giving and sharing, where those with extra stationery can give to those who need it. It is also an excellent way to reduce waste, as unused stationery can be put to good use instead of being thrown away,” says Dr Küng.
She adds that this project is a reflection of the NWU’s values as a community, and aligns with the “BEE Hive” theme used during the registration of first-year education students.
Dr Küng urges the university community to take part. "We want to encourage acts of kindness. We have seen many students who cannot afford basic stationery, and rather than throwing away second-hand stationery, we can donate it to the Busy Bee Kindness Corner.
“We invite everyone to attend the launch, open their hearts, and enjoy a coffee and a light meal with us."
Don’t miss the launch of this worthy cause on 14 August at Building A16, room 123. The project's signboard – crafted by Jan, Janet and Piet Kruger – will also be unveiled.
Dr Elize Küng
