Local writer nominated for award

Prolific author Bongi Malishe of Murchison has published her ninth book, and has been nominated for an award for her efforts.

Written in isiZulu, Isithunzi Sikathisha which means dignity of the teacher has been entered in the Best Education Book category in the The Book Behind Awards.

Bongi calls on South Coasters to vote for her nomination by sending an SMS with the code TBBA BEB09 to 34877. Voting closes on August 31.

The aim of the awards is to hold an annual ceremony in order to recognise and celebrate unsung authors.

Isithunzi Sikathisha focuses on the challenges faced by teachers, among them lack of support from government, limited access to teaching aids, as well as no respect for teachers from learners.

While not a teacher herself, Bongi has spoken to many in the profession and has used their thoughts and feelings as material for her book.

“Some teachers are seen in the role of nannies as some parents don’t take responsibility for their children, others turn into midwives when learners fall pregnant, while some turn into the police when drugs are used at schools,” she added.

Bongi described teachers as a precious commodity and that they should be taken care of as they are nurturing young minds.

Not one to take time off from writing, she is working on a new book about relationships. From books, Bongi would also like to expand her creativity into producing films, and her dream is to shoot a film in Port Shepstone.

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