Project helps schools improve

Seven secondary schools in Seshego have improved on their matric pass rates following intervention by the Seshego Education Project which aims to support and nurture learners in Seshego.
According to project co-founder and Speaker of the Legislature, Polly Boshielo the purpose of the project she initiated with Sport, Arts and Culture MEC Onicca Moloi was to support their alma maters, Masedibu Secondary School and Bokamoso Secondary Schools. After several meetings they decided to cater for all secondary schools in Seshego. Of the ten schools adopted, only three have shown a decrease in their matric pass rate.
Polokwane Executive Mayor, Thembi Nkadimeng later came on board as third founding member and Boshielo said the “three musketeers” want to give back to the community by making education fashionable and build a safe society, free from drugs and criminal activities. The project is guided by the motto ‘A black child will rise ka nkane (against all odds)’.
“We started with Grade 12s and we knew it was not going to be easy but we never gave up on our learners. We are also going to include Grade 11 learners this year. As for those who did not perform well, we will not condemn them but exert more effort and support them to succeed.”
She explained that the project was initially supported by many, the majority of whom pulled out after realising that they would not benefit personally. The founders agreed that they were not going to rely on tenders but on their own money and genuine donors.
Boshielo concluded by saying education is a societal matter and urged communities to join forces and assist young people.
Results of adopted schools over two years:
• Bokamoso – 87,5% – 88,3%.
• Khaiso – 81,3% – 87,9%.
• Masedibu – 62,8% – 79,5%.
• Millennium – 66,0% – 64,7%.
• Dr AMS Makunyane – 59,4% – 64,3%.
• Luthuli Park – 39,7% – 50,0%.
•Moruleng – 59,2% – 51,7%.
• Mohlakaneng – 57,2% – 48,1%.
• Peter Nchabeleng – 42,0% – 46,2%.
• ME Makgato – 31,3% – 27,8%.E

Story & photo: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za