Walmer Primary School is our 2026 "School in Africa"

2026-02-13
Schulversammlungen finden bisher ausschließlich auf dem Schulhof statt - egal ob in der Hitze oder im strömenden Regen

Education creates opportunities – starting from the earliest years

In 2026, the Umckaloabo Foundation will support the Walmer Primary School in the Walmer Township (near Port Elizabeth) in South Africa as part of the A School in Africa project. The school is located in a very poor and disadvantaged community, where families face daily existential challenges.

The Umckaloabo Foundation  was founded by the Schwabe Group in 2010 in order support educational projects for children and young people in Southern Africa. Our shared vision is clear: we want to create a welcoming, respectful, and safe environment for the children of the township – a true “learning oasis.”
Eingang der Walmer Primary School in Südafrika
The entrance and surroundings of Walmer Primary School
Schulhof der Walmer Primary School in Südafrika
Currently, all school assemblies take place in the schoolyard – no matter the weather.

A Community Hall that Transforms School and Township Life

Together with our project partner Masifunde, we aim to enable the construction of a much‑needed community hall on the school grounds. Until now, school assemblies have taken place outdoors – under the burning sun or in pouring rain. The new hall will not only improve daily life for the roughly 1,800 students but also strengthen the sense of community: outside school hours, the hall will be open to residents of the township.

Masifunde, our long-standing partner, is based directly in the township, works closely with the school and is deeply rooted in the local community – a crucial factor for success. The township administration also supports the project with infrastructure measures but lacks the financial resources to fund it alone.

Other project partners are also on board, funding the creation of a traffic education area as well as the construction of new classrooms. This is how a greater whole comes together!
3D-Sicht auf die geplante Gemeinschaftshalle der Walmer Primary School in Südafrika
D rendering of the future community hall with an expanded school garden

Running for a Better Future

The Africa Runners will soon start collecting donations for this initiative. Construction is planned to begin by the end of 2026. Everyone is invited to join – it’s easy to be part of it!

This project is about far more than new buildings: it strengthens the entire township, fosters community and creates real opportunities for future generations. It also deepens the connection between the school and the Masifunde Education Centre.

This is how positive change becomes possible. Because education changes lives.