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SAIRAC SPONSORSHIPS
FUNDRAISER HELPS BELVEDERE SCHOOL OPEN NEW LEARNERS’ CLINIC
By Eamonn Ryan
A 2025 SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre golf-day fundraiser has enabled Belvedere School in Benoni – an institution catering for learners with disabilities – to open a fully equipped, on-site clinic, marking a major step forward in learner care and inclusion. events and exhibitions
According to Gregory Grobbelaar, SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre chairman, speaking at the opening event, the initiative stemmed from a request by a long-standing member who had previously worked with the school.“ We were approached a month or so before the golf day and asked whether we could get involved again. We thought it a worthwhile cause and decided to support them,” he explained. Belvedere’ s learners crafted handmade woodwork items which SAIRAC raffled at the golf day. This raised approximately R90 000, all of which was donated directly to the school.
Belvedere School, which focuses on technical and hands-on learning for students with intellectual and developmental barriers, used the funds to convert an old, unused media centre into a functioning clinic. What had once been a dormant computer room –“ the old‘ offline’ centre,” staff joked – has now been repurposed into a modern clinic that directly improves learner wellbeing.
The transformation was extensive. With the funds, the school installed new tiling, roofing, lighting, blinds, windows, plumbing, a basin and tap, clinical furniture, medical storage, and essential healthcare equipment including blood-pressure monitors and glucose-testing devices. First-aid kits were also provided for the school’ s buses. Part of the funding will additionally support staff medical-training programmes launching in 2026.
The clinic now provides a safe, private space where learners can receive medical attention without leaving the school – a change that the staff describe as transformative.
“ It would not have been possible without the generous support of SAIRAC,” said Anetté Nel, the school’ s therapist.“ Because of your sponsorship, our learners now have a dedicated space where they can receive the care they need. This is a giant step toward better dignity, inclusion and ensuring that learners remain healthy enough to attend school.”
The clinic is headed by Sister Sibiya, who was recently appointed to the school and is responsible for the day-to-day medical care of the learners. Staff described her arrival as a turning point.
“ When we received the post for a nurse, we were super excited and privileged to have Sister Sibiya join us. But we were nervous because we didn’ t have a clinic. With SAIRAC’ s support, we were able to create a proper medical space for her to work in.”
RACA Journal I February 2026
Nel explained that Sister Sibiya will not only run the clinic but will also lead the school’ s medical-training programme for staff, using part of the donated funds. She noted that learners who cannot access proper medical support often stay home, affecting their education and development.“ This clinic means our learners’ health no longer becomes a barrier to learning.”
Grobbelaar emphasised
Greg Grobbelaar, SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre chairman, cutting the ribbon.
that SAIRAC’ s involvement aligns with the organisation’ s core purpose.“ One of our biggest aims is the dissemination of knowledge. Supporting education – especially for learners who rely on specialised support – is a natural extension of that mission. We’ re grateful we could assist.”
He also acknowledged the vital role played by SAIRAC members.“ The funds came from our members’ generosity. We simply created the opportunity.”
Belvedere staff expressed deep appreciation for the partnership.“ Your support is more than financial. It is a statement of faith in our school, our mission, and the potential of every learner here,” said Nel. RACA
Representing SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre( L – R) Robert Fox, Mariet Pieterse, Greg Grobbelaar and Jaco Pieterse.
All images by © RACA Journal www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za 15