POLOKWANE – Three learners from Noorderland High School made their mark by performing poetry at the Africa Day celebration hosted by the University of Limpopo last month.

The event, themed ‘Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong quality, and relevant learning in Africa’, highlighted the importance of education in shaping Africa’s future.

Ntombikayise Thabethe, a teacher at Noorderland proudly shared their achievements.

Gr 9 learner Lulama Mhelembe performed a poem based on former Ghanaian Prime Minister Kwame Nkrumah’s independence speech. Entitled Mbulavulo wa ntshunxeko, it was delivered in Xitsonga.

Gr 8 learner Maseteba Bopape drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s famous 1964 Rivonia Trial speech, I am Prepared to Die, presenting it in Sepedi as ‘ke ikemiseditse go hwa’.

Another Gr 8 learner, Kgonagalo Mohale delivered Thabo Mbeki’s I am an African speech, translated into Sepedi as Nna ke MoAfrika.

Thabethe emphasised that the learners’ outstanding performances were made possible under the guidance of debate and public speaking coach, Kgothatso Manamela.

Despite only having three formal rehearsals, the learners’ natural talent shone through.

“A big thanks to coach Manamela, who put in significant effort, even on her days off, to prepare the students. Their success is entirely due to their dedication and the coach’s support,” Thabethe said.

She also expressed her admiration for the high standard of performances from all the participating students, noting that the experience was uplifting and showcased the value and pride young people have in African languages.

Thabethe added, ‘It was a great experience to witness learners participate in something positive. It gives hope and reinforces the importance of preserving African languages and cultural heritage’.