I drop my niece and little brother off at school every morning.
And I am quite disheartened by some of the things I see our children get up to.
Top of the list is the issue of punctuality.
I see learners stroll, very calmly, at 7:45 as the school bell rings.
There is no sense of urgency whatsoever. Groups of boys huddle up at corners for their morning smoke.
Imijolo… Young ladies and gentlemen caress each other, giggling, kissing, like it is no big deal.
Oh and uniforms – sometimes I look at a child and I can’t even tell what school they are from.
Umswenko, because they are too cool for uniforms I guess.
Why do our children think that this behaviour is OK?
Why are they no longer ashamed or embarrassed when they see me coming?
When did learners stop running towards the school gate, even when they are on time?
I know there are countless contributing factors, but can we also take responsibility?
If it is true that children do what their parents do, that they reflect the attitudes of elders, then we are in trouble.
The value of education is best communicated within the family.
Do we really believe that it is beneficial for our children to be educated?
And if we do, how do we help them understand that?
Their right to education was fought for.
Blood was shed.
Can we not waste these opportunities? Ngiyanicela tu.
