Avoid last-minute uniform stress by planning ahead

“Shop uniforms on time to beat the rush.”

This is the message from a Site C-based designer who has built a strong reputation through his clothing line, which includes school uniforms.

Wanga Tshonti, Khayelitsha school uniform supplier and founder of Kubooo Events Conti, said that while the late rush for uniforms has brought profits, it has also highlighted a recurring problem: parents waiting until the last minute to buy uniforms.

He encourages customers to plan ahead and buy uniforms early to avoid unnecessary stress. According to Mr Tshonti, the rush for school uniforms is an annual occurrence that could be mitigated with better planning.

He said that over the past two years, parents have delayed their purchases more than usual, putting pressure on suppliers during the critical back-to-school period. He advised parents to budget in advance and purchase school uniforms in December, alongside Christmas clothing.

“We end up with our hands full from the opening of schools until well into the term,” Mr Tshonti said.

“Buying early will not only help parents, but it will also give us time to work smartly and produce quality uniforms. Now we are forced to work hastily because children need to be in uniform when school starts. Sometimes delays are unavoidable, but this is something that could have been prevented.”

One parent who spoke to Vukani expressed understanding of the frustration voiced by the supplier. Nobalamli Mbewu admitted that poor planning often exacerbates the situation.

“I am one of those parents who plan late,” she said.

“This year, I should have been prepared, but here I am still looking for a uniform. It is something we really need to work on as parents.”

Another parent, Bakhe Zondeki, highlighted that financial pressure remains a major challenge for many households. He explained that while school uniforms should be a priority, children also expect Christmas clothes, making budgeting difficult.

“It is not easy with the little income some of us earn, especially for those who rely on social grants,” he said. “We have to budget for food, clothes, school registration, and school fees. It is tough, but we try our best.”

Retailers in the area reported that business has begun to pick up, even though schools have been open for some time.