The Faculty of Education at the North-West University’s Vanderbijlpark Campus officially launched the "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 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.

“Education students are often given assignments focused on preparing materials for their future classrooms, but such assignments may become very expensive. The project therefore encourages staff and students to donate any unused stationery or materials they no longer use to the Kindness Corner. All donations will be available to students who may need these materials,” says Dr Küng.

Various staff members and students attended the launch of the Busy Bee Kindness Corner that is located in Building A16, room 123.

The event also saw the unveiling of the "Busy Bee Corner" signboard that was crafted by Jan, Janet and Piet Kruger.

Dr Küng thanked those who helped to realise her vision, especially Natasha de Witt and Karabelo van Zyl.

"I want to thank all those who contributed to the project, including staff and management. We also want to invite other members of the university community to join in and donate stationary they do not use anymore,” says Dr Küng, adding that she hopes the other campuses will follow with similar initiatives.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations, thanked Dr Küng for the initiative and encouraged staff to support the project.

"Thank you for your efforts in spreading the word and building support. I hope this initiative will encourage the university community to spread the spirit of giving and paying it forward.

“We know that many teachers and learners struggle with resources in schools and an initiative like this is a great way of fostering creativity and empowering our students to implement similar initiatives where they might be employed.”

Here are Prof Lloyd Conley, executive dean for the Faculty of Education, and NWU mascot Eagi during the unveiling of the Busy Bee Kindness Corner.