Project Zulu choir tour funds new classrooms in South Africa

Classroom overcrowding has been eased at a township school in South Africa, thanks to money raised during the hugely successful Project Zulu choir tour across the South West last year.

In May 2023, 20 talented children from Jobstown and Mntimande Primary Schools toured the region with their mesmerising traditional Zulu song and dance.

Throughout their three-week trip, the choir performed big stage concerts, visited local schools, made media appearances and busked in busy city centres, including Bristol, Bath, and St David’s (in Wales). The tour raised a record-breaking £32,000, which has been split between the two schools to build new classrooms. 

Project Zulu is a UWE Bristol initiative which has been working in partnership with South African township schools to support the delivery of educational development projects since 2012.

Bristol-based team members from Project Zulu have been able to see first-hand the difference the money has made to the lives of the schoolchildren back in South Africa, by visiting Jobstown Primary School for the opening of their new multipurpose classroom.

Kate Willis, Project Zulu coordinator, said: “The Principal at Jobstown Primary School, Mrs Ntshingila, was deeply inspired from her visits to local schools in Bristol last year. She returned to South Africa eager to integrate technology and learning resources into the classroom to aid quality education.” 

The new building comprises three main sections: a library, an interactive learning area for Grade R and a science laboratory. The classroom is well-stocked with laptops, a projector, books, science materials and early learning resources. 

At the opening ceremony, Mrs Ntshingila expressed her hope and gratitude: “To simply put it, this classroom carries the major task of bridging the gap. I have been at this school for 28 years. I’ve seen teachers do their utmost best in trying to teach the beautiful children of the community and keeping up with the world. This classroom is another aid to assist in that plight; within these four walls our kids can thrive and reach their untapped potential. This classroom serves to provide fundamental amenities to our disadvantaged community and creating a passion for learning in our learners. This classroom will ensure that no child is left behind.”

Kate added: “Being able to visit South Africa and attend the classroom opening was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the fantastic achievements of the 2023 choir tour, with singing, dancing, poetry and readings from every grade in the school. 

“We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who bought tickets to the Project Zulu choir concerts, fundraised or gave a donation, purchased the album, hosted the choir and kindly gave up their time and resources to support the tour. None of this would be possible without your support and generosity.” 

The Project Zulu choir tour is returning in May 2025 – further information will be available soon on the Project Zulu website.