RichBag initiative empowers learners, one backpack at a time

The Sign Shop, in partnership with the African Childhood Development Trust (ACDT), officially launched the RichBag initiative on Thursday, 31 July, at the Love Your Neighbour Pre-Primary School in Okuryangava, Windhoek.The initiative is a heartfelt effort to ensure that no child is left behind simply because they lack the basic tools needed to succeed in school.Founded by Alida Swartz and her late husband, the Love Your Neighbour Pre-Primary School has provided a nurturing learning environment for children in the Okuryangava community for more than a decade.During the handover, teacher Trudy Angela Swartz, the daughter of the school’s founders, shared a moving story. Earlier that morning, a parent arrived with her child and, with visible concern, told Swartz: “Her bag broke, so I had to put all her things in a plastic bag.”Swartz described how the child appeared shy, unaware that she would soon receive a brand-new backpack through the RichBag initiative.Compassion and unity What began as a personal moment of reflection for Ernie Rix, CEO and founder of The Sign Shop, after witnessing children in northern Namibia carrying books in plastic bags, has since grown into a nationwide movement.Through this initiative, a backpack becomes more than just a school item – it becomes a symbol of belonging, readiness and hope.As ACDT’s Maggy Mbako put it: “To some, a schoolbag may seem small, but to a child, it says, ‘I belong in that classroom'".By supporting the initiative, companies from both the public and private sectors have demonstrated what it means to invest in the future of Namibian children, not just through donations, but with purpose, compassion and unity.

RichBag initiative empowers learners, one backpack at a time

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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RichBag initiative empowers learners, one backpack at a time

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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