From 2–12 February, the FESPA Foundation and Messe Frankfurt South Africa partnered to deliver a two-week Print for Good outreach at Madisei Primary School in Polokwane. As part of the Foundation’s Adopt a School programme, the project focused on renovating and furnishing a library, refreshing classrooms with new paint and tiling, and donating books and art supplies to enhance the learning environment. The initiative extends beyond printed educational materials, addressing infrastructure and long-term educational needs through direct corporate partnerships. “We had the honour and privilege of hosting Messe Frankfurt as the company that has adopted one of our schools,” said Steve Thobela ka Mdlalose, Executive Director of the FESPA Foundation, inviting more exhibition companies to participate.

The refurbished library, which will also serve the broader community, symbolises the programme’s goal of creating sustainable impact through collaboration. Messe Frankfurt South Africa staff participated directly in the project, with Jessica Nhleko noting the value of sharing experience with the students. The partnership also highlights an opportunity for exhibition organisers to donate excess materials from trade shows, expanding the concept beyond Print for Good to initiatives such as “Beauty for Good” or “Tech for Good.” By connecting industry resources with schools in need, the FESPA Foundation aims to demonstrate how the print and exhibition sectors can play a practical role in building stronger, more resilient communities.

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