With so much to choose from, parents face a tough task trying to purchase the perfect backpack for their little ones: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
The school bell will soon ring in the start of the new academic year - with learners returning to their desks after the summer holidays.
The mad rush to get school uniforms and stationary for the first term is in full swing. Schools across the country open their doors on 17 January.
Fresh from festive spending, parents are now finding themselves back at the stores for learning materials, school bags and uniforms. The Christmas pudding bowl was barely empty when big and small retailers ripped off the festive in-store decorations, replacing it with back-to-school promotions.
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SNL24 videographer and photographer, Morapedi Mashashe, spoke to parents during their stressful shopping experience to find out about their readiness for the 2024 school calendar.
Xolisani Mahlombe told SNL24 that he's prepared for back-to-school expenses because he sacrificed his festive leave to work overtime: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
A dad, Xolisani Mahlombhe (38) from Braamfischerville in Soweto, said: “My sense of responsibility makes it easier for me because I know that it is very expensive to raise a child. I start saving for special occasions like this in January of every year and I sometimes work overtime even during the festive season.”
Shopping for school shoes bags, Nelly Maseko told SNL24 that she spends on average R2500 per year on school uniforms and stationery. “It is tough but I have to do it.” Photo: Morapedi Mashashe
Tyna Hlabathi bought two pairs of grey trousers for her fast-growing son: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Nomsa Kubeka (61) is relieved that her children are adults and she no longer has to stress about back-to-school expenses: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Nomsa Kubeka (61) says: “I feel sorry for my grandchildren, but their parents were raised well to know that you don’t have to wait for the last day to take care of your child’s needs. I will help where I can but I'm free now.”
Thembile Khanyana shopping for early learning aids with his 1 year and 11 months daughter Nomthandazo: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Njabulo Rooibaietjie trying on a school backpack during a shopping spree with his father Tebogo Kees is struggling for choice: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Malebo Mashila a shop assistant packing shoes: Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
The shelves are stocked to capacity with school supplies ahead of the start of the new academic year. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
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