PPG’s New Paint for a New Start Initiative transforms secondary school in South Africa

PPG has completed a transformative makeover at the Mamelodi Secondary School in Pretoria through its global New Paint for a New Start initiative, part of the company’s Colourful Communities® programme. The project brought together more than 80 volunteers, including employees, customers, suppliers and teachers, who refurbished more than 10 school buildings, including 33 classrooms, as well as railings, road markings, curbs, parking bays and signage.

PPG provided a total of 660 gallons (2,500 litres) of coatings, including PPG SIGMASHIELD™ 880 corrosion-resistant coating for the railings, ENNIS-FLINT® road markings by PPG, and Prominent Paints interior and exterior paints. Volunteers selected colours from a special palette developed by PPG experts to suit specific learning objectives, including a foundation of light gray and cappuccino beige combined with bold, eye-catching blue, green and yellow accent colours. PPG also supplied the school with new blackboards and whiteboards.

“We are indebted to PPG for selecting our school as a beneficiary of the Colorful Communities programme,” said Mogo Selahle, Principal of Mamelodi Secondary School. “The generous paint donation has brought vibrant possibilities and endless creativity to our environment. Support like this illuminates the path of learning and will inspire our students to dream, create and thrive. Our school is the heart of our community, and this investment will help us produce well-rounded, contributing members of society.”

The project also features a large mural designed by South African artist Murray Cowan. The vibrant multi-dimensional piece is intended to inspire students with imagery and messages representing the school’s educational pillars of academics, sport and culture, and incorporates its motto, “Forward in Faith.”

PPG dedicated June, July and August to protecting and beautifying schools around the world through the New Paint for a New Start initiative using research-based colors and PPG color expertise, to help students thrive.

“PPG has a strong sense of social accountability. We help people through our community engagement efforts and improving educational facilities in the markets where we operate,” said Danie du Preez, PPG Sales Director, Protective and Marine Coatings, Africa. “We are pleased to help beautify Mamelodi Secondary School and to create learning spaces that inspire bright starts for its learners.”